Navigating the Waters: The Limitations of Pool Alarms in Contrast to Computer Vision Drowning Detection

In the quest for enhanced pool safety, traditional pool alarms have been a go-to solution for many. However, with the advent of Computer Vision (CV) drowning detection technology, the limitations of these alarms become increasingly apparent.

The Shortcomings of Pool Alarms

Pool alarms are designed to alert when there is unauthorized entry into the pool water. They come in various types, including surface wave detection, subsurface detection, and threshold alarms¹. Despite their good intentions, pool alarms have several disadvantages:

• False Alarms: Pool alarms can be overly sensitive to environmental factors like wind, rain, or leaves, leading to frequent false alarms.
• Limited Range: Some pool alarms may not cover the entire pool area effectively, especially for larger pools.
• Additional Expense: Installing pool alarms can be costly, particularly if multiple devices are needed to cover the entire pool.
• Maintenance: Pool alarms require regular battery checks and maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Limited Functionality: Pool Alarms are Deactivated when the Pool is Active, and they provide no protection during pool activity time.

The Advantages of Computer Vision Drowning Detection

On the other hand, CV drowning detection systems offer several advantages over traditional pool alarms:

• Accuracy: CV systems use advanced algorithms to detect signs of distress or non-movement in swimmers, reducing the likelihood of false alarms
• Comprehensive Coverage: These systems can monitor the entire pool area continuously, providing a more reliable safety net.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial setup might be higher, CV systems can be more cost-effective in the long run due to their durability and low maintenance requirements
• Protection during pool activity: CV systems are monitoring not only when the pool is not active, but more importantly when the pool is active in order to detect in case of a drowning incident, since 88% of drowning happen when the pool is active this is the most important advantage compared to all other Safety systems

Conclusion

While traditional pool alarms have played a crucial role in pool safety, their disadvantages are notable when compared to the capabilities of CV drowning detection devices. The precision, coverage, and advanced features of CV technology represent the next step in safeguarding our swimming environments.