At CanToo, the safety of our participants has always been our top priority. Our ocean swim programs are structured to help you gradually build your confidence within the ocean, while staying safe.
What is water safety?
Water safety involves a comprehensive approach to managing risk and ensuring the wellbeing of our community during water-based activities.
This includes:
- Conducting robust risk assessments before each session
- Engaging with trained and qualified personnel equipped to respond to emergencies
- Implementing clear safety protocols to guide decision-making and participant support
Together, these elements create a safe, supportive environment for everyone involved in our programs.
Our Coaches and water safety teams
We have a team of experienced Coaches and qualified water safety personnel who will support you during your ocean swimming training and ensure the safety of all participants.
All CanToo Coaches hold a current, nationally recognised first aid certificate, which is renewed every three years in line with industry standards and best practice.
Before every ocean training session, our Coaches assess the beach and surrounding conditions to ensure it’s safe for the group. This includes monitoring the surf, tides, weather, and any environmental changes. If conditions aren’t suitable, adjustments are made to the session or location to prioritise everyone’s wellbeing.
We also consult with a variety of trusted stakeholders, including NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs, to stay informed and aligned with local water safety standards and conditions.
Safety procedures at the beach
At the beach, we require all CanToo-ers to follow the below safety procedures:
- Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the training session. So that you can get a number and listen to the CanToo Coaches briefing.
- No cap, no swim - this is essential for safety, so that CanToo water safety and Coaches can see you easily in the water. A brightly coloured cap will be issued on Week 1 of training.
- Please listen to the CanToo Coaches briefing and instructions during the training session.
- Please always clarify any instructions that you do not understand before proceeding.
- Please swim to your ability - avoid following more experienced swimmers into conditions that are not suitable for your skills and experience level.
- Swim with a buddy - find someone to be your buddy for the session, look out for each other.
- Please raise your hand if you find yourself unable to swim back to shore, raise one arm?and signal for help from CanToo Water Safety or Life Savers on patrol, remain calm, help will arrive.
- Please do not swim if you have an illness that is likely to affect your ability to exercise. Or if you are affected by alcohol – this includes hangovers! Check with your CanToo Coach if you are unsure.
- Please ensure you are suitably nourished and hydrated - it is important to arrive at training well-hydrated and having eaten beforehand to maintain energy levels. Avoid eating a large meal immediately before swimming, as this may affect your comfort and performance in the water.
- If you leave early the training session early - please notify the CanToo Coach or a participant before leaving.
In the unlikely event of an emergency, we have clear protocols in place, and our Coaches and water safety teams are trained at the start of each season to ensure they are prepared to respond swiftly to any incident.
If you have any questions about water safety, please get in touch with us at info@cantoo.org.au and we’ll be happy to assist.
