Investing In Aquatic Safety Pays Dividends

Each year PDRMA allocates more than $250,000 to aquatic-related risk management programs and activities to help members provide a fun and safe environment for patrons and staff. But it’s not all work and no play — PDRMA offers training and competition opportunities as well.

“We encourage members to take advantage of the Lifeguard Vision Screening program at the beginning of the season and Aquatic Audits — which are an integral part of our aquatic risk management program — throughout the summer,” explains Dane Mall, PDRMA Risk Management Services Manager. “Together, these programs help agencies prepare their lifeguard staff each season.”

Lifeguard Vision Screening

PDRMA has offered this program since 1995, and Dr. Barry Seiller of the Visual Fitness Institute (VFI) in Vernon Hills administers it. At the beginning of the season, aquatic managers conduct the exams using kits supplied by VFI and submit the results for evaluation. Should a lifeguard fail the vision screening, VFI notifies the aquatic manager who tells the lifeguard to follow up with his personal optometrist.

Aquatic Audits

The lifeguard audits for members are done by either Jeff Ellis and Associates (E&A) or Starfish Aquatics Institute (SAI). Most E&A and SAI clients receive three audits during the summer season, while those with American Red Cross (ARC) get a single audit conducted on a random date by E&A auditors on behalf of ARC. Members with indoor pools also receive an audit in the fall and/or winter.

Both the audit vendors and PDRMA’s Risk Management Consultants work closely with aquatic managers to address deficiencies and areas for improvement immediately following an audit.

Aquatic Training

“In addition to the services provided by these vendors, PDRMA also has a Lifeguard Interview Training Program for members,” says Mall. “It combines our drowning investigation experience as well as post-incident investigations that address issues related to both aquatic facilities and lifeguard operations.”

The training includes a video clip that recreates a portion of an interview with a rescuing lifeguard, as well as a leader’s guide for in-house instruction. Participants gain a better understanding of — and appreciation for — the responsibility of being a lifeguard and/or a supervisor of aquatic staff while they learn about what to expect following a crisis incident.  

For 2016, PDRMA also updated LRN #507 — PDRMA Aquatic Safety Guidelines to include risk management recommendations for managing recreation camps and outside groups at aquatic facilities. Among the topics addressed are agency aquatic risk management policies and procedures, and written agreements.

Lifeguard Games

When you train hard and work hard, some friendly competition can be a great way to reduce stress. This summer, PDRMA will be a sponsor for both the IPRA Lifeguard Games at the Northbrook Park District on July 15 and the Lake Michigan Beachfront Lifeguard Games later this summer.