Artificial intelligence (AI) will now be used to detect drowning at several leisure centres across the municipality, providing lifeguards with an extra pair of digital eyes.
Lifeguard on Watch – a smartwatch – utilises a series of strategically positioned cameras analysing patterns of swimmer behaviour and pool usage, significantly reducing blind spots, particularly in complex or crowded aquatic facilities.
Backed by leisure facility management BlueFit, the AI device will be rolled out to trained lifeguards at Mill Park, Windy Hill Fitness Centre, BlueFit South Morang, Rockbank, Bacchus Marsh, and Botanic Ridge.
If the cameras detect a potential drowning, the smartwatch will notify the lifeguard in real time, pinpointing the exact location and providing accompanying images. The continuous feedback loop will also allow the AI system to learn and improve its accuracy over time, making it an invaluable and life-long tool.
BlueFit Chief Executive Todd McHardy stated the device would offer ‘superior visibility’.
“The AI system offers lifeguards superior visibility and awareness of swimmer behaviours, significantly reducing the risk of oversight, even under challenging conditions,” he said.
“This technology does not replace our lifeguards but enhances their ability to monitor and respond to emergencies more effectively. In fact, average lifeguard vigilance testing time has dropped from 86 seconds to just under 25 seconds since the implementation of Lifeguard on Watch.”
BlueFit has implemented the high-tech system in 15 aquatic facilities nationwide, with a roll out of a further 10 sites planned for the remainder of 2024.