How to Implement A Pool Emergency Action Plan At Your Facility
As a pool operator, you know that safety is of the utmost importance. In the event of an emergency, it is crucial to have a plan in place so that everyone knows what to do. An emergency action plan (EAP) can help you and your staff be prepared for anything. With that said, let’s review a few key factors in implementing a pool emergency action plan at your commercial facility.
Create A Pool Emergency Action Plan
Actually creating a pool emergency action plan needs to be done before implementing it. The emergency action plan should be comprehensive and easy to understand in the event of an emergency. It needs to cover crucial information such as: pool staff roles, emergency contact information, emergency medical service contacts, pool evacuation procedures, and post-emergency meeting details. Having this information readily available and understood by your CPO© certified staff will help ensure that they are able to respond quickly and appropriately if an emergency situation arises in or around your pool facility.
Designate Responsibilities
The pool emergency action plan is a very significant part of pool safety, so it’s critical that a responsible individual be delegated to create and direct this plan. By designating someone to lead the pool emergency action plan, they can ensure that proper procedures are in place in case of an accident and that pool staff members are adequately trained in emergency response scenarios. Not only will this help pool patrons feel safe and secure, but it will also help your facility remain compliant with local pool safety regulations and requirements. In addition, designating an individual to be in charge of the plan ensures that there is no confusion over who is responsible for implementing it or revising it. Knowing exactly who to turn to in an emergency will make the situation much more manageable.
Train All Staff Members
Now that an individual is designated to manage the EAP, the rest of your staff members need to have a thorough understanding of the pool emergency action plan and how to use it. To accomplish this, set up training sessions with courses tailored to all staff members. This will ensure that everyone is aware of the protocols outlined in your action plan. By having pool personnel available who are trained in evaluating potential pool-related issues and utilizing the pool emergency action plan accordingly, pool-related emergencies will be resolved more effectively. Perhaps you could introduce a platform that allows staff members to gain access to refreshers on the pool emergency action plan at any time. Upload resources to your website or print out posters for your facility. Do whatever it takes to help maintain your employees’ knowledge of key safety procedures over a longer period of time.
Post the Emergency Action Plan in A Visible Location
Posting the pool emergency action plan in a visible location at your pool facility will make it easy for staff and patrons alike to know the protocol for responding to any pool emergency. It also reinforces the importance of pool safety measures so that all pool patrons can enjoy their time at your facility with greater peace of mind. Make sure everybody knows where to find the pool EAP, and it will help mitigate potential risks and other instances of pool-related emergencies.
Call 911 If Necessary In Case of Emergency
Having an EAP and an effective system in place for calling 911 is vital to the safety of your pool facility. A pool emergency action plan encompasses the important steps to be taken in the event of an emergency, knowing safe evacuation routes and calling 911 if necessary. Having this plan in place ensures guests and employees know who, when, and how to reach out for help in case of an urgent situation. Establishing a system that quickly and accurately calls 911 is paramount as failure to take proper actions right away can lead to more dangerous outcomes. Therefore, pool management should ensure all members are aware of pool protocols and that they are comfortable making the call to appropriate authorities if needed.
Implement An EAP With Pool Operation Management
Are you ready to implement a pool emergency action plan at your facility? Choose Pool Operation Management to help. By taking the time to create a comprehensive plan and designate someone to be in charge of it, you can ensure that your facility is prepared for any potential emergency situation. Our pool professionals can help train your staff members and provide information with local laws. To get started with an EAP and any of our other commercial services, reach out to Pool Operation Management today.
