You Can’t Save Someone You Can’t See

Of all the requirements for a safer aquatics program, topping the list (after the swimming ability of your lifeguards) is good vision. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the second leading cause of injury and death among ages 1 to 14 years. For lifeguards, good eyesight is a literal life-saver — you can’t save someone you can’t see. PDRMA offers webinars, handbooks, guides and training for aquatic managers, but it's our Lifeguard Vision Screening program, offered at no cost to members, that's essential — and easy — according to two agency managers.

River Trails Park District

“Having our guards complete the Vision Screening tests helps ensure they will be able to perform their job duties optimally,” says Katie Halverson, CPRP, AFO, Recreation Supervisor, River Trails Park District. “It’s a standard component of our first day of training. Guards are always very cooperative, as it’s a straightforward vision test that only takes a few minutes, making it easy for everyone to use. And being able to submit results online makes it convenient and simple for staff to complete.

“The Vision Screening program is one of our building blocks to becoming a proficient guard,” Halverson continues. “If a guard has vision below the standard range, we can’t expect her to scan assigned zones properly and keep patrons safe. By participating in the vision screening, it helps our staff to learn and perform their job duties at the highest possible level. And since PDRMA reimburses us for the cost of the program — it’s a win-win.”

West Chicago Park District

Gina Radun, Superintendent of Recreation, West Chicago Park District, and a former lifeguard herself, seconds Halverson’s sentiments about the program. “Lifeguard vision screening is an effective way to make sure our lifeguards are up to standards. They complete extensive training before the season begins, and we set the standard for our lifeguards to remain vigilant at all times. Making sure our lifeguards can clearly see the water to assess their zone is crucial! It’s a simple step you can very easily overlook — fortunately, PDRMA’s Lifeguard Vision Screening program has us covered.”

Radun notes the agency’s lifeguard and pool management staff has always been very cooperative in participating in vision screening. “They understand the importance of their job and appreciate we take part in this program to ensure a safe environment for our community.”

She notes the screening is easy to do and comes with directions for conducting the test as well as for inputting and submitting results. “Our lifeguard staff understands the importance of the job, and that it starts with being able to assess the activities of guests in our facility,” Radun explains. “Participating in the vision screening program has paid off for our agency by providing a sense of comfort knowing we’re using this program as another safety precaution before we open our doors to patrons for the season.”

Download and complete our Lifeguard Vision Screening Program and Online Request Form (330) to participate in the program this year.

PDRMA Resources

• Prepare for Aquatic Season (Recorded webinar)
  April 15, 9 to 11 a.m.
  This webinar reviews PDRMA’s Aquatic Safety Handbook (507) as well as the resources available to prepare your facility and staff for the upcoming season. You’ll learn how best to train returning and new employees and establish risk management protocols.
• Risk Management Best Practices for Day Camps at Aquatic Facilities  (Webinar)
  April 22, 9 to 11 a.m.
  Join us for a discussion about best practices for day camps and aquatic facilities. We’ll focus on facilities hosting internal or external day camps, and review what you need to know when your agency has day camps visiting other aquatic facilities.