Bartlett Park District Aquatic Staff Awarded Platinum Status
Dave Littwin, Aquatic Manager, announced today that the Bartlett Park District has been awarded the prestigious "Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award". Earning this award demonstrates that the aquatic facilities they operate consistently exceed industry standards in risk management and epitomize aquatic safety excellence. International Aquatic Safety Awards are conferred to deserving aquatic facilities by Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. - International Aquatic Safety and Risk Management Consultants.
"It Is apparent that the entire staff embodies the idea of setting the standard in aquatic safety and swimmers who frequent this aquatic facility are afforded the highest degree of swimmer protection currently available for the aquatic industry," said Richard A. Carroll, Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. Senior Vice President and COO.
International Aquatic Safety Awards are presented annually to participants in E&A's Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program (CARMP) and are based on the results of multiple random Unannounced Aquatic Facility Operational Safety Audits throughout the year. These audits include undercover video surveillance of individual lifeguards while they protect their Zone of Protection® areas, in order to accurately evaluate their professional diligence. Additionally, individual and team basic life support and rescue skills are evaluated, along with simulated emergencies that measure the effectiveness of established Emergency Action Plans. The audit concludes with administrative, supervisory and facility evaluations. All E&A client facilities are top performers and represent the finest and safest aquatic facilities in the world. As such, it is of particular note when E&A facilities perform so well that they are granted an International Aquatic Safety Award.
International Safety Awards are presented only to E&A's most elite clients. Presented in three levels - Silver, Gold, and Platinum - only the top 10% of E&A clients in the world receive a Platinum International Aquatic Safety Award each year.
The Bartlett Park District has been part of Ellis & Associates, Inc since 1993 when the Bartlett Aquatic Center opened. It is proud to be part of an organization that is focused on safety and provides feedback in the way of on-site audits. Audits are unannounced and assess the skills of the staff required to keep patrons safe and run a successful facility.
"Our lifeguard staff ranges from age 16-21. That being said, it is amazing to see young adults train and become confident in saving drills. Whether it be scanning the water, or performing a full unconscious scenario, they are committed to do an awesome job. The staff culture is extremely supportive. We definitely have a sense of family among this staff. We had a goal in 2017 to be the best and reach for the E&A Platinum award which only the top 10% of clients in the world receive and we did it. I am extremely proud of all my staff for their hard work and perseverance and we are ready for another stellar year," Dave Littwin, BPD Aquatics Manager.