There are hundreds of public swimming facilities and waterparks operated by cities, towns, counties, and authorities across the Commonwealth. These facilities provide a welcome relief for citizens; however, they also bring with them a few important considerations.
NOVA Parks operates five water parks throughout Northern Virginia. Risk Manager Derric Bolton says that lifeguard training is the foundation of their aquatics program.
“Probably the main piece of advice I could give VRSA members is if you’re operating a public swimming facility or waterpark, the foundation of your operation should be built on the lifeguard training program and use,” said Bolton.
“All lifeguards are trained through the Jeff Ellis International lifeguard training program,” says Mitchell. “Which is a three or two-day course paired with e learning, modules you can’t skip through, and a written exam at the end of it all. We need to be 100 percent confident that if we put you in the stand, you can keep guests and facilities safe.”
In addition to lifeguard training, keeping facilities safe for employees and visitors includes proper maintenance, inspections, chemical usage and storage procedures, and much more. Learn more about how NOVA Parks manages these challenges and how VRSA can help you get your public swimming facilities and other recreational facilities in shape in the video below.
For more information, reach out to your safety consultant at 800-963-6800.