Swimming pool safety awareness campaign
Reykjavík's annual swimming pool safety awareness event is today, January 21. The event commemorates Guðni Pétur Guðnason, a Reykjavík City Department of Welfare employee who died after swimming on January 21, 2021.
Now in its second year, the awareness event is held in partnership with the Icelandic Red Cross. This year's focus is on pool safety, the vital role of lifeguards, and their training.
Lifeguards play a crucial role as first responders
The Icelandic Red Cross now conducts nationwide lifeguard training, including instructor training. It offers an annual Safety and Rescue class for these staff members. As a member of Nordic and international pool and water safety organizations, the Icelandic Red Cross ensures the use of the latest safety methods.
The class provides specialized training in safety, first aid, and water rescue for all swimming pool and bathing facility staff across Iceland. Additionally, lifeguards must pass an annual water rescue competency test to maintain their certification.
In 2024, 350 new lifeguards completed the Icelandic Red Cross Safety and Rescue basic training, and 1,295 individuals passed the water rescue competency assessment.
Guests also have responsibilities
Pool guests are responsible for their own behavior. They should be capable of swimming in deep water and be mentally and physically fit to swim. Guests must be aware that water, heat, and cold can affect underlying health conditions.
Swimming is always at one's own risk. This responsibility extends to accompanying children, ensuring they have necessary safety equipment such as flotation devices.
Swimming pools will continue to prioritize guest safety. This ensures visitors have the best experience when using the pools for play, exercise, and relaxation, maintaining them as centers for physical, mental, and social well-being.
By working together, we can enhance the safety culture at swimming and bathing facilities.