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Amid rising instances of abuse, violence and aggression directed at staff working in aquatic facilities around the country, Royal Life Saving Society - Australia has launched a new campaign which sets clear behavioural expectations for patrons and calls for users of aquatic facilities to treat each other and staff respectfully.

Aims to support the safety and wellbeing of staff working in aquatic facilities, Royal Life Saving, under the direction of the National Aquatic Industry Committee, is launching the ‘Keep Your Cool at the Pool’ campaign, which sets clear behavioural expectations for patrons and calls for users of aquatic facilities to treat each other and staff respectfully.

Royal Life Saving General Manager - Capability and Industry, RJ Houston explains “violence and aggression towards lifeguards and swim teachers are totally unacceptable, and this campaign encourages a collaborative approach to safety by reinforcing a culture of respect, cooperation, and zero-tolerance for aggression in aquatic facilities.

“Lifeguards and swim teachers provide a critical lifesaving role to the community and are there to keep everyone safe. When they give instructions to swimmers, this is to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

“We want aquatic facilities to be safe spaces not only for swimming but for staff to work. That’s why we’re encouraging everyone to ‘Keep Their Cool at the Pool’ this summer and support our lifeguards and swim teachers against occupational violence and aggression.”

The ‘Keep You Cool by the Pool’ campaign has already garnered strong support from aquatic industry leaders.

Belgravia Leisure’s Group Manager - Health & Safety Scott Vanderheyden emphasised the importance of respect for lifeguards and swim teachers in the community, noting “unfortunately, lifeguards and swim teachers are often abused for providing basic safety instructions to users, such as to keep watch over their children or use a particular area of the facility.

“This can lead to hesitation in providing safety instructions promptly, which is the last thing we want from our lifeguards and swim teachers, as their guidance is essential for everyone’s safety. It’s crucial for all pool users to show respect to lifeguards and swim teachers during their visit.”

AUSTSWIM General Manager Georgie Nichol echoed this sentiment, saying abuse of any kind has no place in public swimming pools.

Nichol stated “we stand united with our colleagues at Royal Life Saving in championing a culture of respect and zero tolerance to abuse.

“Swim teachers play an invaluable role in delivering vital water safety education within our communities, and we believe that all educators deserve a workplace where they feel respected, supported, and free from intimidation.

“We are committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all swim teachers. Let’s stand together to end all forms of abuse and ensure every swim teacher feels respected and valued.”

The Y Victoria's Chief Risk Officer Dan Coathup said ensuring young people have a safe and positive experience at work is vital, adding “lifeguards and swim teachers are vital to keeping our pools safe and fun this summer, and they deserve respect.

"The ‘Keep Your Cool at the Pool’ campaign highlights the importance of creating a workplace where our staff feel safe, supported and protected as they grow in their careers.”

Click here for resources and more information about the ‘Keep Your Cool by the Pool’ campaign on the Royal Life Saving campaign website.

Main image: Increasing levels of abuse, violence and aggression are directed at staff working in aquatic facilities around the country. Credit: Fawkner Leisure Centre.

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