Overview

Pool lifesaving is one of the three core disciplines that make up the sport of lifesaving including beach and open water competition, or surf lifesaving. Pool lifesaving tests swimming, rescue skills and initiative in a still-water environment.Pool lifesaving is a year-round sport that is suitable for amateur and seasoned swimmers, for lifeguard fitness and development, and for those looking for a fun and interesting way to stay safe and active in the water.

Pool lifesaving is one of the three core disciplines that make up the sport of lifesaving internationally. In addition to ocean and beach disciplines, more commonly known as surf lifesaving, pool lifesaving tests swimming, rescue skills and initiative in a still-water environment.While many become involved in pool lifesaving as a winter alternative for surf sports, pool lifesaving is a year-round sport that is suitable for junior and seasoned swimmers, for lifeguard fitness and development, and for those looking for a fun and interesting way to stay safe and active in the water.

Speed Events

Speed events are a test of speed, strength and technique, involving a variety of swimming and lifesaving skills including competition and survival strokes, contact and non-contact rescues, and use of rescue equipment. Many speed events utilise a manikin (also known as a rescue dummy, or bob) to simulate a real patient. The aim of speed events is to be the first to the finish wall, but with the right technique to avoid disqualification. Speed events also include relays involving various swimming and rescue skills, equipment and sequences.

Emergency Response

Emergency response events also known as initiative tests involve an aquatic emergency scenario that competitors must respond to within a time limit. Initiative events include the Simulate Emergency Response Competition (SERC) and CPR competition (also known as dry SERC). Initiative events can be run in an individual or team format, with competitors scored on their overall response to the emergency scenario.