While many people drown, no one should.

 

Drowning is fast, silent and preventable.  The tragedy is not just the loss of life but that it happens despite our knowledge of what works, early Aquatic Education and ongoing Water Safety Skills.  

Swimming and Water Safety are fundamental life skills, they open doors to a lifetime of safer aquatic activities, health and wellbeing.  After decades of advocacy and research many Australians still cannot save themselves in an aquatic environment.

Teaching our community members to swim in a pool is essential but water safety in open water environments - like lakes, rivers, oceans and other natural bodies of water requires additional knowledge and precautions because open water presents differently and has greater unpredictable risks.  

No one should drown. Sadly, lives continue to be lost when swimming is viewed only as a pastime, rather than recognised as an essential life skill for everyone.

What is the Simulated Open Water Program?

The Simulated Open Water Program (SOWP) connects the dots—bridging the gap between traditional swim teaching in the safety of a controlled pool and the realities of swimming in open water environments. While pools provide a stable and predictable setting, replicating the unpredictable dangers and risks of open water—currents, waves, limited visibility, and sudden changes—can be challenging. The SOWP offers a practical solution by bringing these elements into a safe, supervised learning space.

Designed with flexibility in mind, the program can be delivered as a stand-alone circuit of activities or seamlessly integrated into day-to-day swim teaching. Each activity is carefully developed to simulate real-life situations, giving participants the chance to practise problem-solving, decision-making, and survival skills in conditions that mimic open water challenges.

Instead of unstructured “fun days,” schools and swim schools can implement the SOWP to provide purposeful, engaging, and enjoyable sessions. Students not only enjoy the activities but also gain valuable, hands-on experience that strengthens their water safety knowledge. This approach enhances their ability to recognise risks, respond appropriately, and build confidence for when they encounter natural waterways beyond the pool.

The Simulated Open Water Program is more than an activity—it is a vital step in preparing swimmers for real-world aquatic environments.