Lifeguards at Selwyn Aquatic Centre in Canterbury now have additional support from a newly implemented AI system designed to assist in detecting potential drowning situations.
The technology deploys 27 cameras throughout the aquatic centre to monitor and analyse swimmer movements. It will notify lifeguards of any potential signs of distress in swimmers through waterproof smartwatch technology and dashboards located in the lifeguard office.
These alerts will indicate the specific pool where the incident is occurring and the swimmer’s exact location.
“The Selwyn Aquatic Centre is our most used site with over 530,000 customers in the past year. Lifeguarding is a challenging role, and this technology is incredibly innovative and is a valuable tool that will help our qualified lifeguards to keep people safe. We’re thrilled to be one of the first users of this technology in New Zealand,” James Richmond, Head of Sport and Recreation, said.
Lifeguard Dexton Green also commented about the newly embraced technology, “We basically get a map of the pool; it shows us where an incident is, and we’re prompted to go and check it.”
“It’s essentially a second pair of eyes,” he added.
“At the end of the day, it’s here to help us, and anything that helps us, we’re going to take on board.”
The Council initiated an investigation into the potential implementation of new technology after a medical incident occurred in 2023 involving an individual swimming at the centre.
Although staff were able to assist the person effectively, they observed that reflections and glare on the water made it difficult to see them. Following this incident, a further investigation suggested exploring technology that could mitigate this risk.
The system was installed just prior to Christmas and is thought to be the first of its kind in New Zealand. This cutting-edge technology is part of the council’s new digital strategy aimed at enhancing operational efficiency through increased technological integration.