Lifeguard Staffing

• Ensure a sufficient number of certified lifeguards on duty based on pool size and capacity.
• Schedule additional lifeguards during peak hours to maintain optimal supervision.
• Never waiver on appropriate guard coverage. If you’re short staffed consider closing sections of the pool or aquatic amenities that require extra coverage. 

Staff Training:

• Take time in advance to conduct staff training on crowd management, emergency response, and communication protocols on busy days. 
• Ensure staff is well-versed in pool rules and policies. They’ll be harder to enforce, but of vital importance when crowds are present. 

Pool Capacity Monitoring:

• Utilize minimal points of entry to implement a controlled admission system to track and limit the number of patrons in the pool area.
• Post visible signage indicating maximum capacity.

Rotation and Positioning:

• Proactively develop a map of lifeguard coverage during full-capacity scenarios. 
• Rotate lifeguards frequently to prevent fatigue and maintain vigilance.
• Position lifeguards strategically to cover all areas, including deep and shallow sections, play features and aquatic amenities that require additional supervision. 

Zone Management:

• Divide the pool area into zones and assign lifeguards to specific areas for focused supervision.
• Designate zones for different guest activities (e.g., lap swimming, recreational play) to minimize activity crossover. 

Clear Communication:

• Ensure lifeguards and staff have effective communication tools (e.g., whistles, two-way radios) for swift coordination, even in noisy environments. 
• Train staff to communicate with hand signals well in advance of crowds. 

Emergency Preparedness:

• Review and practice emergency response procedures regularly.
• Conduct unannounced emergency drills to assess staff readiness.
• Consider adding bystanders to your in-service trainings to simulate real-world scenarios. 

Crowd Control Measures:

• Enforce pool rules and policies consistently to prevent unsafe behaviors.
• Manage line queues for water slides or attractions to prevent overcrowding.
• Map out deck furniture to allow for appropriate spacing around the pool. 
• Use barriers, fences and ropes as crowd control devices. 

First Aid and Medical Services:

• Maintain a well-equipped first aid station with trained staff.
• Ensure all first aid equipment is regularly audited and replenished. 
• Have protocols in place for medical emergencies and prompt access to medical professionals.

Continuous Surveillance:

• Ensure lifeguards maintain vigilant scanning of their assigned areas.
• Address distractions with dedicated staff that do not have scanning responsibilities

Adult Supervision

• Set clear expectations and rules for adult supervision of non-swimming children. 
• Consider deep-end testing to identify non-swimmers and restrict their areas of pool usage. 
• Regularly inspect all aquatic areas to ensure all supervision requirements are being met. 

• Test your public address system regularly to ensure announcements are clear and audible. 
• Use public address systems for important announcements, including weather alerts or safety instructions.