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Computer detection helps save Sydney swimmer

May 7th, 2013
Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope: real time picture recorded by the Poseidon system
Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope: real time picture recorded by the Poseidon system

For the first time in Australia, a drowning has been averted thanks to the assistance of the Poseidon computer-based drowning detection system.

The near-drowning incident occurred at Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope, in Sydney, where the first Poseidon system was installed six years ago. The system alerted lifeguards to the danger and they responded immediately, rescuing the swimmer who was at the bottom of the pool.

This technology is currently installed in more than 220 pools in Europe, the US and Japan, and 25 people are able to thank the Poseidon system for helping lifeguards save their lives.

The Poseidon system is a computer-based drowning detection system dedicated to assisting lifeguards: it sends them alerts on a real-time basis and is able to give them the exact coordinates and location of the drowning person in the pool.

The aim of this technology is to minimize the immersion time, in order to prevent brain injuries or fatalities.

The duty of a lifeguard is difficult in a public swimming environment due to glare, the inconsistency of water, the challenge of maintaining a sharp attention at all times and, of course, the unpredictability of aquatic patrons. The system is used to minimise the risk involved in this environment and to provide the best possible tool to assist lifeguards in the pursuit of safety.

Click below to see a video of the  system in operation.

WARNING: although it is not the rescue in Australia, it is a real life rescue and may disturb some viewers.

For more information call Troy Green on 0408 360 292 or email troy.green@maytronics.com.

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By Chris Maher
SPLASH! Magazine
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