Navigating the Depths: An Athletic Administrator’s Perspective on Pool Safety

As a high school athletic administrator, one of the main responsibilities is to provide for the safety and well-being of our student- athletes. Pool safety can be a complex world that demands careful attention, where the drive for athletic success is closely tied to the commitment to providing a safe environment.

Establishing a Secure Physical Environment
At the heart of pool safety lies the physical setup of our facility. At Carmel, we consider regular maintenance checks, visible signage, and effective security measures not just as priorities but as non-negotiable standards. Collaborating closely with our maintenance staff, we promote a proactive approach to quickly address any issues, encouraging a culture where safety consistently takes priority, and open communication becomes the norm. From routine chemical checks to signage outlining operational hours and enforcing proper footwear, ensuring that all pool doors remain locked when not in use is of utmost importance.

Certifications, Training and Lifeguard Vigilance
A well-trained and certified staff is vital for effective pool safety management. It’s crucial to verify that all lifeguards hold valid certifications and are taking advantage of opportunities to enhance their skills. Beyond lifeguards, our coaches and even non-aquatic staff undergo fundamental water safety training. Ongoing training programs are essential to ensure that prompt responses occur in an emergency.

Emergency Preparedness: A Cornerstone of Safety
Developing and regularly updating comprehensive emergency action plans tailored to the pool environment is essential. These plans are ingrained in everyone’s awareness, covering a range of situations from minor incidents like an unplanned fire alarm to more severe, life-threatening emergencies. Regular drills and simulations play a crucial role in preparing our team for potential crises. Coaches, athletes and support staff actively participate in these rehearsals, aiming to cultivate an effective response in the face of real emergencies.

In 2019, we faced an unexpected challenge when an explosion occurred in our fieldhouse due to a gas leak. The force of the explosion was significant enough for those in the pool to feel the blast. Thankfully, the incident resulted in no serious injuries. Immediately following the explosion, individuals in the pool evacuated the facility promptly, adhering to our established protocols, and gathered at the predetermined rallying spot. This incident underscores the importance of our commitment to emergency preparedness, ensuring the well-being of everyone involved in our aquatic community.

Cultivating a Culture of Respect Through Behavioral Expectations
Establishing a safe pool environment relies on clear behavioral expectations. Working with coaches to enforce rules regarding horseplay, swimming etiquette and overall behavior establishes a culture of respect for safety guidelines. Coaches and supervisors need to be reminded that many people they are supervising may be in a foreign and/or intimidating environment. It may be necessary to have private conversations with some individuals before they enter into the pool confirming they have a clear understanding of all expectations. Enforcing the rules consistently for everyone using the pool emphasizes the importance of these expectations.

Physical Education Classes
Ensuring safety measures are in place is a top priority as we work with the chair of the physical education department before each semester’s swim unit. Together, we strive to make our pool facility accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. Creating an inclusive environment is crucial, especially considering that many students in the class may be unfamiliar with the aquatic setting.

To keep parents and guardians well-informed, it’s crucial to send out proper notifications about the upcoming swim unit in advance. These notices should outline safety measures and provide details on any specific requirements, such as appropriate swim attire. Addressing concerns related to ramps, entry points and adaptive equipment is vital to enhancing the inclusivity of our aquatic programs. By embracing inclusivity, we not only cater to diverse needs but also contribute to an environment where every student feels welcome and safe.

Conclusion
As a high school athletic administrator, pool safety requires an “all hands-on deck” approach that considers facility management, personnel training, emergency preparedness, behavioral expectations and inclusivity. By prioritizing these elements, we create an environment where the pursuit of athletic excellence intertwines with an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of everyone who enters our pool.