As temperatures continue to heat up this week, locals heading to council-run pools are being reminded to treat workers and lifeguards with respect.
The City of Greater Geelong has highlighted the impact of abuse workers face, as part of its Occupational Violence and Aggression awareness campaign.
Lauren is a shift supervisor, saying lifeguards enforce rules in and around the facilities to keep everyone safe.
However, she admitted she has also been the target of abuse.
“A lot of parents will come in, promising their child that they will be able to go on the really cool waterslide, but unfortunately, they are below the height requirement [and can’t ride],” she said.
“This quite often will turn into a big piece of conflict.
“Interestingly, we often have middle aged men, that have children with them, getting angry and upset with 16-year-olds, 18-year-olds, 21-year-olds (employees).”
Lauren wanted the community to remember lifeguards and workers were human too, but they were there to keep everyone safe around the water.
