According to figures from Royal Life Saving New South Wales a lack of supervision by parents and carers is the main factor in 70 per cent of drowning deaths at public pools.

The Keep Watch @ Public Pools initiative launched by Royal Life Saving NSW hoped to remind parents they must keep watch of their children at all times in public pools.

A Queanbeyan City Council spokesperson said parents play a vital role in preventing the drowning of children.

"Queanbeyan City Council takes safety at the Aquatic Centre and other public pools very seriously Council's trained lifeguards encourage parents to be within arm's reach of their children at all times or actively by being in the water," they said.

Many parents are lulled into a false sense of security in public pools according to Royal Life Saving NSW.

David Macallister, CEO of Royal Life Saving NSW said parents must remain vigilant at all times in pool areas.

"There are too many examples of parents leaving their children at swimming pools to complete shopping or go for a coffee. This is totally unacceptable. It places the child at risk," he said.

A Queanbeyan City Council spokesperson said the message is simple.

"Children need to be closely supervised all the time, every time," they said.

For more information on the Keep Watch @ Public Pools Program, visit www.royallifesaving.com.au

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