Expert Witness Service
As the only recognized authority in Canada on aquatic risk management (i.e. lifesaving and lifeguarding) the Society is frequently asked to provide our expertise for fatality inquiries, inquests and court cases. The Society responds to these requests in a strictly non partisan manner in order to further our humanitarian goal to reduce drowning and water-related injury.
As the authority in Canada, the Society is frequently consulted by both sides in civil cases. We believe it is inappropriate to withhold our expertise from one party simply because we have been consulted by the other. This role has received judicial approval.
The Lifesaving Society is pleased to consult with counsel to advise and offer an opinion. Following site visits and accident reconstruction, the Lifesaving Society presents a detailed report, which would be supported by the Society's appearance in court.
To request expert witness services:
Clients requesting services enter into a contract with the Society. The contract stipulates the scope of the review and the type of report desired. Fees vary depending on these and other variables. For more information or to request an expert witness service, Contact us.
Neate Fatality Inquiry
The Report on the Public Fatality Inquiry regarding the drowning death of an 19 year old Alberta man was released December 22, 2011 by the Minister of Justice for the Province of Alberta and the Attorney General.
The Lifesaving Society concurs with the Honourable Judge Groves's recommendations. The Society's Public Aquatic Facility Safety Standards (PAFSS) have incorporated similar recommendations and guidelines since 2001.
Judge Groves's recommendations reinforce the need to develop and maintain strong risk management practices. The Society fully believes that most if not all of our affiliates have these practices in place.
It is important to put the recommendations into context in respect to each unique facility needs. In light of the inquiry's findings, facility managers will want to review their risk management practices.
The Society can help, check out the resources available on-line or contact Society staff with your questions. You may want to request a topical assessment or comprehensive safety audit.
Neave Fatality Inquiry
The Report on the Public Fatality Inquiry regarding the drowning death of an 8 year old Alberta boy was released May 7, 2009 by the Minister of Justice for the Province of Alberta and the Attorney General. Throughout the inquiry, the Lifesaving Society provided vital testimony to the Honourable Judge Bruce A. Millar to assist him in making his findings.
The Lifesaving Society concurs with the Honourable Judge Millar's recommendations. The Society's Public Aquatic Facility Safety Standards (PAFSS) have incorporated similar recommendations and guidelines since 2001.
Judge Millar's recommendations reinforce the need to develop and maintain strong risk management practices. The Society fully believes that most if not all of our affiliates have these practices in place.
It is important to put the recommendations into context in respect to each unique facility needs. In light of the inquiry's findings, facility managers will want to review their risk management practices.
The Society can help, check out the resources available on-line or contact Society staff with your questions. You may want to request a topical assessment or comprehensive safety audit.
In further support, the Society planned an Aquatic Safety Management Institute in November, 2009. This institute will launch a number of programs that align to Judge Millar's recommendations.
