After two drownings at city-operated pools this year, the city has released a report investigating pool procedures at facilities in Edmonton.
On July 7, 2012, a man was found submerged in Queen Elizabeth Outdoor Pool. The man died in hospital 12 days later. On July 31, 2012, a young boy died after drowning at the O’Leary Fitness and Leisure Centre.
The Aquatic Safety Report included independent analysis by the Lifesaving Society and a review by the city. The review has determined that in both incidents, the facilities were in compliance with current regulations. However, the report has outlined areas where safety could be enhanced.
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The city says it has accepted and acted on all of the recommendations by the Lifesaving Society and has implemented a number of improvements.
“Patrons will notice some new signs, some new rules, and some new ways of doing things. For example, we will start to practice clearing the pool, and other safety drills, more often,” said Linda Cochrane, General Manager of Community Services for the City of Edmonton.
Cochrane says emergency drills will help both staff and community members understand what to do if an emergency occurs.
The deaths in July were the first drownings at city-operated pools in 22 years.
The entire Aquatic Safety Report can be read below:
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