DG One pool investigation continues

Nov 20 2009 by Jackie Grant, Dumfries Standard Friday

DUMFRIES and Galloway Council this week said that robust measures are in place to ensure the safety of people using its pools.

The announcement came following a complaint from a frantic mother who claims her daughter nearly drowned in the pool at DG One.

A spokesman said the council has a duty to ensure that people using pools are not exposed to risk, and that an investigation is currently being carried out to establish the facts relating to concerns expressed by the mum.

Katie Nairn, from Lockerbie, said she was left in fear of her daughter Madison’s life when the four-year-old got into difficulty in the water.

Mrs Nairn met with the manager of DG One this week in a bid to ensure tighter procedures are put in place and to warn parents to be more vigilant when their youngsters are swimming.

Investigation

The council spokesman added: “Following a meeting with the DG One manager, the mother has expressed satisfaction that a full and thorough investigation of the situation is being carried out.

“Each year more than 200,000 swim customers use the pools at DG One.

“Between May and December 2008, 11 water rescues were performed.

“Between January and October this year, nine water rescues were required.

“A water rescue is when a member of staff has to either enter the pool or use a piece of equipment to assist a swimmer in difficulty. A water rescue wasn’t required on this occasion.”