Getting to know your facility(s) is the first order of business. This is a multi-level task, and a forewarning, just when you think you know it all, something will come up, I guarantee it!
Get to know your laws and codes. Many states, counties and cities have different codes and expectations for leaders, staff, and facility. Keeping up with these regulations are very important as they can have major impact on your facility.
Know the certifications you will need to do your job and plan to get them. Many are required and provide several resources and networking opportunities. Knowing what you need is determined by your local laws/codes, the programs you offer, and the type of facility you manage. There are several certifying entities out there, E&A, JEM, American Red Cross, YMCA, StarGuard Elite, The Aquatic Council, Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), National Recreation & Parks Association (NRPA), and several more. Whether required or not I recommended a CPO/AFO license, Lifeguard certification/license, Lifeguard Instructor, and Swim Instructor. Even if your facility doesn’t have swim lessons, I still recommend this. The knowledge of stroke mechanics and methods of teaching them will come in handy. There are several more certifications related and pertaining to aquatics, but these are a great and essential start.
Get to know the equipment. From pumps, valves, filters, showers, jets, slides… all of it! Getting familiar with these items is the first step in preventative maintenance. CPO and AFO is a good start with this. Equipment is going to break no matter how well you maintain your facility, parts wear, and breakdowns will happen. The key is to stay ahead of this as much as possible. Create a maintenance schedule! Pumps need oil, impellers checked, chemical lines and pumps serviced, and hot tubs need to be cleaned – OFTEN! Creating a schedule based on equipment manuals, manufacturer recommendations, and facility needs are all great ways to do this. Call your vendors who typically service your facility. They have knowledge of past issues and may know your facility better than anyone else. Cleaning is a part of maintenance! A clean facility will help keep many issues at bay, not to mention create a great image of your staff and facility. Patrons’ perception is reality!
Speaking of patrons, knowing your clientele is huge, they’re everything! Without them, you or your aquatic staff wouldn’t be needed. They are the ones you are making an impact on. Their safety, enjoyment, and success at your facility is a direct result of your hard work and leadership. Get to know them on a personal level. What part of the community they are coming from, the programs they access, the age ranges, even the economic status of your patrons will give you a guide to future projects. Patrons will also guide you on what changes are needed and give you an idea of what kind of impact you’re making.
