The Lifesaving Society responds to the Neave Fatality Inquiry
The Report on the Public Fatality Inquiry regarding the drowning death of an 8 year old Alberta boy was recently released by the Minister of Justice for the Province of Alberta and the Attorney General. Throughout the inquiry, the Lifesaving Society provided vital testimony to the Honourable Judge Bruce A. Millar to assist him in making his findings. In response to the reports release the Society circulated the attached media release to Alberta media outlets and has responded to a number of inquiries from both media and affiliates.
The Lifesaving Society concurs with the Honourable Judge Millar’s recommendations. The Society’s Public Aquatic Facility Safety Standards (PAFSS) have incorporated similar recommendations and guidelines since 2001. The recommendations coming from the fatality inquiry have been posted in the Safety Management section of our website: http://www.lifesaving.org/safety_management.php?page=479.
Judge Millar’s recommendations reinforce the need to develop and maintain strong risk management practices. The Society fully believes that most if not all of our affiliates have these practices in place. It is important to put the recommendations into context in respect to each of your unique needs and facility. In light of the inquiries findings, this is a good time to review your risk management practices.
The Society can help, check out the resources available on-line or contact Society staff with your questions. You may want to request a topical assessment or comprehensive safety audit. In further support, the Society is planning an Aquatic Safety Management Institute in November, 2009. This institute will launch a number of programs that align to Judge Millar’s recommendations.
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Sue Sherman
Communications Director
Lifesaving Society Alberta & Northwest Territories
11759 Groat Road / Edmonton / AB / T5M 3K6
Tel: 780 415 1755 / Fax: 780 427 9334
Email: sues@lifesaving.org / Web: www.lifesaving.org
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