Artificial intelligence is set to save lives this summer at a Logan aquatic centre.
The Queensland-first innovation will be used at Gould Adams Park Aquatics Centre in Kingston to prevent drownings.
The innovative technology uses overhead cameras and special software to detect unusual movement in the water.
Lifeguards will wear smartwatches that receive real-time alerts and pinpoint the location in the pool of where a swimmer is struggling.
The Royal Life Saving Society of Australia recorded six drowning deaths and more than 7800 rescues at public swimming pools in 2023.
Mayor Jon Raven said Logan City Council was proud to lead the way in improving the safety of Logan swimmers.
“While there’s no replacement for adequate supervision from parents, caregivers and lifeguards, this technology will be an extra layer of safety around pools,” he said.
“For those in our community who can’t swim or are not confident in the water – this could help save someone’s life.”
RLSSA general manager of capability and industry, RJ Houston said the organisation was pleased to support enhanced safety through next-generation lifeguard assistance technology.
“The potential of combining lifeguard expertise with AI-enhanced drowning detection technology is a promising development for Logan and the broader community,” Mr Houston said.
Logan City Council plans to roll out the camera technology across other pools in the coming years.