TITLE: AI System Bolsters Lifeguard Vigilance at Australian Pools

An artificial intelligence system designed to detect drowning risks is being implemented in 120 public swimming pools across Australia, providing lifeguards with real-time alerts to enhance swimmer safety during the summer season.

The technology integrates with existing closed-circuit television cameras in pools, analyzing swimmers' movements to identify signs of distress, such as prolonged submersion, sudden cessation of activity or erratic struggling. When a potential incident is flagged, an alert is sent directly to a lifeguard's smartwatch, enabling a swift response.

Duncan Hutton, recreational facilities operations coordinator for the City of Stirling in Perth, described the system as an additional layer of vigilance. 'It gives them eyes in the back of their head,' Hutton said. He emphasized that the AI does not replace human lifeguards but serves as a supportive tool, requiring staff to verify and act on alerts.

Proven Effectiveness in Real Incidents

The system has demonstrated its value in actual emergencies. At the Stirling Leisure-Inglewood pool in Perth, where it has been operational for over a year, the technology alerted staff to a swimmer in distress several months ago. A lifeguard responded within seconds, coordinating with a member of the public who had already begun assistance, leading to a successful rescue.

In Sydney, Royal Life Saving Australia (RLSA) reported a similar incident involving a person trapped under a pool boom, a movable bulkhead. The AI issued two alerts after initial checks by the lifeguard yielded no visible signs due to water refraction and glare. The second prompt, informed by multiple camera angles, prompted a return inspection, resulting in a timely extraction and averting harm.

RJ Houston, from RLSA, highlighted the system's ability to address human perceptual limitations in aquatic environments. 'Refraction, glare and line-of-sight barriers are significant challenges,' he said. The technology's multi-angle analysis provides a more comprehensive view than unaided observation.

Reducing Stress and Building Confidence

Beyond immediate safety benefits, the AI is alleviating the psychological burden on lifeguards. Houston noted that personnel often experience 'chronic unease,' a persistent state of heightened stress due to the ever-present drowning risk. Early research in partnership with Lynxight, a leading provider of such tools, indicates that the system is easing this tension.

'Lifeguards feel more confident, and pool managers report better rest before shifts,' Houston said. The organization anticipates widespread adoption, viewing the technology as a standard feature in Australian facilities.

Professor Paul Salmon of the University of the Sunshine Coast praised the initiative as one of AI's more constructive applications in public safety. 'It assists humans in their core duties and appears effective,' he said. However, he cautioned against potential pitfalls, including over-reliance that could erode lifeguard skills or lead to complacency.

Training and Future Safeguards

To mitigate these risks, RLSA has developed a nationwide training program for lifeguards, focusing on integrating the technology without diminishing manual detection abilities. The program, set for imminent rollout, aims to maintain vigilance and ensure the AI remains an adjunct rather than a substitute.

Hutton echoed the need for balanced implementation. 'You still need the lifeguard to respond,' he said, underscoring that the system prompts action but does not execute rescues.

The deployment comes amid ongoing concerns about drowning prevention in Australia. Recent reports highlight year-long waitlists for swimming lessons in regional areas and rising drownings, particularly among children. While the AI addresses supervision gaps in supervised pools, experts stress the importance of foundational swimming education.

As summer peaks, the technology's expansion to 120 sites represents a proactive step in aquatic safety, blending innovation with traditional oversight to protect swimmers nationwide.