Changes to supervision policy enhances safety of young swimmers

This adjustment is effective 1 April and is being made to ensure the safety of all swimmers while maintaining a safe, enjoyable environment for families.

The change reflects the Pool Alone policy that is required as part of the facility’s Poolsafe accreditation.  The change also mirrors the requirements enforced at neighbouring pools.

"Our top priority is the safety of all swimmers.  The swimmer to caregiver ratio ensures caregivers can be within the required ‘arms reach’ of their swimmers,” said Catherine Todd, Aquatics Activity Leader of Makino Aquatic Centre.

Under the Pool Alone policy, children under the age of 8 years of age are required to be actively supervised by a caregiver aged 16 or older.  In addition to the required age, the caregiver to swimmer ratio has also changed:

• One caregiver can supervise up to two under 5 year olds
• One caregiver can supervise one under 5 and up to three 5-8 year olds at once
• One caregiver can supervise up to four 5- 8 year olds at once.

Although poolside signage acts as reminders to the changes, the implementation will be monitored through colour coded wrist bands provided at the time of admission. Red wrist bands will be used to identify under 5 year olds.  Green wrist bands remain in place for 5 to 8 year olds.

The Makino Aquatic Centre offers a variety of swim programs, including lessons, group activities, and family swim times, to support swimmers of all ages and skill levels.  These changes enhance the safety for all swimmers.  If you have questions about the change in policy or it might affect your family’s swimming experience, feel free to talk to the team at reception.

For more information, including details on aquatic programming, visit makino.co.nz.