After two people, one man and one child, were found submerged in two city pools in separate incidents in July – the city has released the results of a review into the city’s safety practices, and preventative measures that have been added.
The report has been released following internal and external expert reviews of the two apparent drownings, both of which occurred in July.
The first happened at the Queen Elizabeth outdoor pool on July 7, where a man was found submerged – he was rushed to hospital but passed away died twelve days later.
The second incident took place at the O’Leary Fitness and Leisure Centre on July 28, where a boy died after he was found submerged in the pool.
Reviews of both incidents included independent analysis from the Lifesaving Society.
The Lifesaving Society confirmed that in both incidents the city was in compliance with all safety regulations and standards – but the reviews outlined areas where safety at city-operated facilities could be enhanced.
On Wednesday, the city announced a number of details would be introduced throughout public pools.
“Patrons will notice new signage, some new rules and new ways of doing things,” Community Services General Manager Linda Cochrane said. “For example, we’ll start to practice clearing the pool and other safety drills more often.
“We’re exploring emergency surveillance and warning technologies to help lifeguards monitor what’s happening in the pool and more quickly come to the aid of a swimmer who might be in distress.”
Cochrane told CTV News the new safety procedures will be in place by the end of this year.
The full report has been posted online.
With files from Ashley Molnar
