A new wristband device, launched by SenTAG recently at the David Lloyd Leisure pool in Oxford, is claimed set to significantly reduce drownings and near-drownings, particularly among children.
The innovative British system checks individual swimmers via a small worn wristband. It works by monitoring depth, motion and time and if a bather is deemed to be approaching preset limits the wristband issues a wireless alert via radio and/or ultrasonic transmission.
Initially the wristband alarm sounds and the LED lights flash, prompting the swimmer to return to a safer location. If they fail to respond appropriately, the unit issues a full alert to supervisory staff, a feature which SenTAG says will significantly reduces 'false-positives', a major problem with alarm systems.
Mike Lyons, chief executive officer of new company SenTAG Limited says that they set out to advance the range of scenarios under which pool safety systems are effective and change the economics of using them.
“SenTAG provides individuals with alarmed protection in shallow or deep water, crowded or 'empty' pools, and is even capable of picking up those in distress before they sink to the bottom of the pool or float to the surface.
“The system is simple to install, requires no complex building work or expensive cable installation and is straightforward to use. We calculate that the costs will work out at between £1 to £3 per hour, depending on the size of the pool.”
George Masters, group safety manager at David Lloyd Leisure where SenTAG is undergoing trials with a view to implementing throughout the organisation, said: “Any device that can assist in preventing, accidents, incidents and near misses in our swimming pools, especially with regard to children has to be welcomed.
“As such I am pleased that David Lloyd Leisure is able to assist in the trial and development of SenTAG.”
The device is intended for use at pools operated by both the public sector, standard municipal ones and by private organisations such as hotels, schools and sports clubs, whether formally or informally supervised.
In addition to the wristbands, SenTAG comprises a pool hall wall unit, portable supervisor pager-like units, and ultrasonic and radio transmitters/receivers.
It is planned that the system will become commercially available before the early autumn of 2006.
Picture shows Jon Wheeler, SenTAG's Technical Director (left) and Mike Lyons, SenTAG's Chief Executive Officer
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