Introduction

Every lifeguard hopes they never have to respond to a true emergency.

Every parent hopes their child never needs one.

Every pool operator hopes their equipment works exactly as designed.

Every board member hopes they never receive the phone call that something serious has happened.

Yet emergencies don't wait until people are ready.

They happen unexpectedly.

A child slips while running on the deck.

A swimmer struggles beneath the surface.

Someone begins choking during a cookout.

A patron experiences a seizure.

A chemical container leaks.

A medical emergency occurs without warning.

In those moments, preparation—not panic—makes the difference.

At Temple Hills Swim Club, we believe that safety is everyone's responsibility. While certified lifeguards and Pool Operators have specialized training, guests, members, parents, volunteers, and board members all play an important role in creating a safe environment.

This guide was created to explain what happens during common pool emergencies, who is responsible for responding, and how everyone can work together until professional emergency responders arrive.

The goal is not to replace professional lifeguard training or emergency medical instruction. Instead, this article is designed to help everyone understand the Emergency Action Plan (EAP), communicate effectively during emergencies, and know what to expect when seconds matter most.

Why Emergency Preparedness Matters

The safest emergency is the one that never happens.

That philosophy shapes everything we do at Temple Hills Swim Club.

From enforcing pool rules to maintaining proper water chemistry, conducting equipment inspections, training lifeguards, and educating members, every safety measure exists for one reason:

To prevent emergencies before they occur.

According to professional Pool Operator guidance, prevention begins with trained staff, attentive supervision, functioning emergency equipment, and a facility-specific Emergency Action Plan that every team member understands and practices.

Preparation doesn't eliminate every emergency.

It simply gives everyone the best chance to respond successfully.

What Is an Emergency Action Plan (EAP)?

An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is a written step-by-step procedure that explains how staff should respond when an emergency occurs.

Rather than expecting people to "figure it out" under pressure, an EAP assigns responsibilities before the emergency ever happens.

Professional Pool Operator guidance recommends that every aquatic facility develop, post, review, and regularly practice a site-specific Emergency Action Plan so each staff member understands their role.

At Temple Hills Swim Club, our philosophy is simple:

Preparation over panic.

When everyone understands their responsibilities beforehand, emergencies become organized responses instead of chaotic situations.

Every Person Has a Role

One of the biggest misconceptions about emergencies is that only lifeguards matter.

That's simply not true.

Everyone has a responsibility.

Lifeguards

Lifeguards are responsible for:

• Recognizing emergencies immediately
• Activating the Emergency Action Plan
• Beginning appropriate care within their training
• Directing other staff
• Protecting remaining patrons

Pool Operators

Pool Operators help ensure:

• Safe facility operation
• Water quality
• Equipment functionality
• Chemical safety
• Facility shutdown when necessary
• Operational support during emergencies

Board Members

Board Members oversee:

• Facility leadership
• Public communication
• Incident review
• Policy decisions
• Authorization to reopen after major incidents

Parents & Guests

Guests should:

• Stay calm
• Follow staff instructions immediately
• Avoid crowding the emergency scene
• Keep children together
• Never interfere with emergency responders
• Provide information only if requested

Sometimes the most helpful thing a guest can do is simply create space for trained responders to work.

Everyone Else

Emergencies require teamwork.

Not everyone performs CPR.

Not everyone enters the water.

But everyone can help by remaining calm, following instructions, and allowing trained personnel to do their jobs.

The Chain of Command

Although many responsibilities happen simultaneously, communication should generally flow through the following chain:

1. Lifeguard identifies the emergency.
2. Emergency Action Plan is activated.
3. 911 is called immediately if needed.
4. Manager or Head Guard is notified.
5. Pool Operator responds as necessary.
6. Board Member is informed.
7. Parents or guardians are notified when appropriate.

The most important point is this:

If an emergency requires 911, do not delay calling while trying to notify everyone else.

Emergency medical services should be activated as quickly as possible whenever a life-threatening emergency exists.

Calling 911

Calling 911 may feel stressful.

That's normal.

The dispatcher is there to help.

Speak slowly.

Remain calm.

Answer every question.

Do not hang up until instructed.

A sample emergency script similar to those used in aquatic facilities includes identifying the emergency, providing the facility address, explaining where EMS should enter, describing the type of emergency, and remaining on the line until instructed otherwise.

For Temple Hills Swim Club, an example could be:

"Hello, my name is _____, and I'm calling from Temple Hills Swim Club. We have an aquatic emergency at 5400 Henson Drive, Temple Hills, Maryland 20748. Please enter through the main pool entrance. Someone will meet EMS and direct you to the emergency location. We have a person experiencing (state the emergency)."

Be prepared to provide:

• Your name
• Facility name
• Address
• Nature of the emergency
• Date and time
• Exact location (main pool, baby pool, deck, parking lot, etc.)
• Number of injured people
• Current condition of the victim
• Callback number if requested

Before ending the call (if appropriate), ask:

"Approximately how long until EMS arrives?"

Relay that estimated arrival time to responding staff so they can prepare to meet emergency personnel.

Emergency Procedures at Temple Hills Swim Club

Emergencies can happen without warning. While no two situations are exactly alike, every emergency should begin with the same priorities:

1. Recognize the emergency.
2. Activate the Emergency Action Plan (EAP).
3. Call 911 immediately if the situation is life-threatening.
4. Provide care within your level of training.
5. Keep other guests safe.
6. Communicate through the chain of command.
7. Document the incident after the emergency has ended.

The following scenarios explain how each emergency is generally handled at Temple Hills Swim Club.

Drowning or Water Rescue

Drowning is one of the most serious emergencies that can occur at any aquatic facility. It often happens quickly and quietly, which is why constant surveillance by trained lifeguards is essential.

Professional Pool Operator guidance notes that prevention, attentive lifeguards, and active supervision remain the most effective ways to reduce drowning incidents.

Signs Someone May Be Drowning

Although every situation is different, common warning signs include:

• Head low in the water
• Mouth repeatedly going underwater
• Little or no forward progress
• Climbing or ladder-like arm movements
• Panic or inability to call for help
• Motionless or unconscious beneath the surface

Remember:

Not every drowning victim is yelling for help.

Many are completely silent.

What Lifeguards Should Do

If a drowning or distressed swimmer is recognized:

• Activate the Emergency Action Plan immediately.
• Enter the water using the appropriate rescue technique.
• Remove the victim from danger.
• Begin the appropriate level of care based on your certification.
• Direct another staff member to call 911 if necessary.
• Request emergency equipment such as the AED, oxygen, or backboard if appropriate.
• Continue providing care until EMS assumes responsibility.

What Pool Operators Should Do

Pool Operators should:

• Assist with clearing the facility if requested.
• Support emergency responders.
• Prepare facility information if requested.
• Secure the emergency scene.
• Assist with documentation after the incident.

What Guests Should Do

If you witness a drowning:

• Alert a lifeguard immediately.
• Do not enter the water unless you are trained and it is absolutely necessary.
• Move away from the rescue area.
• Keep walkways clear for emergency responders.
• Follow all staff instructions.

When Should 911 Be Called?

911 should be activated immediately whenever:

• A victim is unconscious.
• CPR may be required.
• The victim has stopped breathing.
• A spinal injury is suspected.
• There is any doubt about the severity of the incident.

When in doubt,

Call 911.

Temporary Pool Closure

Following a significant water rescue, Temple Hills Swim Club may temporarily close the pool for approximately 30 minutes or longer while staff:

• Ensure all patrons are safe.
• Reset emergency equipment.
• Complete required documentation.
• Prepare for reopening.

The pool will only reopen after staff determine it is safe to resume normal operations.

Choking Emergency

Although choking emergencies are less common around the pool than drowning incidents, they can occur anywhere on the property, especially during cookouts, parties, and special events.

A blocked airway can quickly become life-threatening.

Time matters.

Common Causes

• Food
• Candy
• Small toys
• Objects placed in the mouth

Signs Someone May Be Choking

• Unable to speak
• Unable to cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Hands around the throat
• Blue lips or face
• Loss of consciousness

Lifeguard Response

A trained lifeguard should:

• Quickly assess the situation.
• Activate the Emergency Action Plan.
• Call for additional staff.
• Call 911 if the obstruction cannot be relieved or the victim becomes unconscious.
• Provide care according to current certification standards.

Guest Responsibilities

If someone appears to be choking:

• Notify a lifeguard immediately.
• Do not crowd the victim.
• Give responders room to work.
• Follow staff instructions.

When to Call 911

Call immediately if:

• The airway remains blocked.
• The victim loses consciousness.
• Breathing cannot be restored.

Seizure Emergency

Seizures can occur without warning and may happen in or out of the water.

The response depends on where the seizure occurs and the condition of the victim.

Lifeguard Response

If the seizure occurs in the water:

• Activate the Emergency Action Plan immediately.
• Remove the victim from immediate danger.
• Protect the victim from additional injury.
• Request EMS.
• Continue monitoring until EMS arrives.

If the seizure occurs on land:

• Protect the person's head.
• Remove nearby hazards when possible.
• Do not restrain the person.
• Do not place anything in their mouth.
• Monitor breathing and responsiveness.
• Provide care within your training.

Guests Should

• Stay clear of the emergency.
• Give responders room.
• Avoid filming or photographing the incident.
• Follow staff instructions.

When to Call 911

Call immediately if:

• The seizure occurs in the water.
• It is the person's first known seizure.
• The seizure lasts several minutes.
• Another seizure follows.
• The person remains unconscious.
• A serious injury occurred.

Trip, Slip, and Fall Injuries

Not every emergency happens in the water.

In fact, many pool injuries occur on the pool deck, bathrooms, walkways, or parking lot.

Wet surfaces can become slippery even when everyone is following the rules.

Minor Injuries

Examples include:

• Small cuts
• Minor scrapes
• Bruises

Staff may provide basic first aid within their level of training.

Serious Injuries

If a person:

• Hits their head
• Cannot stand
• Complains of severe pain
• Has obvious deformities
• May have injured their neck or back

The situation should be treated as a potentially serious emergency.

Avoid moving the injured person unless they are in immediate danger.

Guests Should

• Notify a lifeguard immediately.
• Keep the area clear.
• Never attempt to force someone to stand or walk after a serious fall.

When to Call 911

Call immediately if:

• Head injury is suspected.
• Neck or spinal injury is suspected.
• Heavy bleeding cannot be controlled.
• The person loses consciousness.
• Serious fractures are suspected.

Active Shooter or Violent Intruder

An active shooter or violent intruder is one of the rarest emergencies an aquatic facility can experience, but preparation is essential. The objective is simple:

Protect life first. Property can be replaced. People cannot.

Unlike a typical pool emergency, lifeguards are not expected to confront or stop an armed individual. Their responsibility is to help people move to safety while protecting themselves whenever possible.

If You Hear Gunshots or Observe a Violent Threat

If an immediate threat to life exists:

• Activate the Emergency Action Plan.
• Call 911 immediately.
• Alert other staff members.
• Direct patrons away from the danger if it is safe to do so.
• If evacuation is unsafe, move people into the nearest lockable room, such as the office or restroom.
• Lock or barricade doors if possible.
• Silence cell phones.
• Stay quiet until law enforcement instructs you to leave.

Your personal safety is important. A lifeguard cannot help others if they become another victim.

Guests Should

• Remain calm.
• Follow staff instructions immediately.
• Do not stop to collect personal belongings.
• Help children remain with their parents or guardians whenever possible.
• Do not leave a secure location until instructed by law enforcement.

Board Members and Pool Operators

During or immediately after the incident:

• Coordinate with responding law enforcement.
• Keep unauthorized individuals away from the scene.
• Preserve the scene for investigators.
• Handle all communication with families and the media.
• Coordinate reopening only after law enforcement determines the facility is safe.

When to Call 911

Immediately.

Provide:

• Facility address
• Description of the threat
• Number of people involved (if known)
• Last known location
• Description of the individual (if safely observed)

Do not hang up until instructed by the dispatcher.

Chemical Spill or Chemical Emergency (Pool Operators)

Pool chemicals are essential to keeping swimmers safe, but they must always be handled with care. Improper handling or mixing of chemicals can create dangerous conditions for staff and guests.

Pool operators should always follow manufacturer instructions, use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and consult Safety Data Sheets (SDS) before handling chemicals.

Examples of Chemical Emergencies

• Chlorine leak
• Muriatic acid spill
• Chemical container damage
• Strong chemical odors
• Suspected chemical reaction
• Equipment malfunction involving chemical feeders

Pool Operator Responsibilities

If a chemical emergency occurs:

• Keep people away from the affected area.
• Notify other staff immediately.
• Wear the required PPE if it is safe to respond.
• Do not mix chemicals or attempt unsafe cleanup procedures.
• Shut down affected equipment if trained to do so.
• Contact emergency services if the spill presents a danger to people or the environment.

If there is any concern about toxic fumes, evacuate the surrounding area immediately.

Lifeguard Responsibilities

Lifeguards should:

• Keep patrons away from the area.
• Assist with evacuation if directed.
• Avoid entering chemical storage areas unless properly trained.
• Prepare for EMS if anyone has been exposed.

Guests Should

• Leave the affected area immediately.
• Follow staff directions.
• Do not attempt to investigate the spill.
• Do not re-enter until staff says it is safe.

When Should 911 Be Called?

Call immediately if:

• Someone has been exposed to hazardous chemicals.
• There is difficulty breathing.
• A large spill occurs.
• A fire or explosion risk exists.
• Staff cannot safely control the situation.

Blood, Vomit, Feces, and Other Bodily Fluids

Every public pool experiences contamination events from time to time. While unpleasant, these situations are manageable when handled properly.

The primary goal is always the same:

Protect public health.

Professional Pool Operator guidance recommends staff receive bloodborne pathogen training and maintain site-specific procedures for contamination incidents.

Blood

Blood may result from:

• Nosebleeds
• Small cuts
• Scrapes
• Other injuries

Staff Response

• Remove the injured person from the water if necessary.
• Provide basic first aid within your level of training.
• Wear disposable gloves when exposure to blood is possible.
• Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces using approved procedures.
• Dispose of contaminated materials properly.
• Document the incident.

Small amounts of blood on the deck are typically cleaned and disinfected before reopening the area. More significant incidents may require temporarily closing the affected area.

Vomit

Vomit introduces germs that can spread illness if not handled correctly.

If vomiting occurs:

• Remove patrons from the immediate area.
• Close the affected section of the pool if necessary.
• Notify the Pool Operator.
• Follow established contamination procedures before reopening.

Fecal Incidents

Fecal contamination requires immediate attention because it may introduce harmful microorganisms into the water.

If fecal matter is found:

• Clear the affected pool immediately.
• Notify the Pool Operator.
• Follow the appropriate contamination response based on whether the incident is solid or diarrheal.
• Reopen only after water treatment and safety requirements have been completed.

Because treatment requirements vary depending on the type of contamination and local regulations, Pool Operators should always follow the established procedures and applicable health department guidance before reopening.

Urine

Many people assume urine requires the same response as fecal contamination.

Fortunately, it generally does not.

Modern pool disinfectants are designed to address small amounts of urine introduced by swimmers. While swimmers should always use the restroom instead of the pool, a urine incident alone does not typically require the extensive response associated with fecal contamination.

Guests should still report concerns to staff so the situation can be evaluated.

Saliva

Normal amounts of saliva in pool water are expected and are effectively managed through proper pool chemistry.

However:

• Spitting into the pool is prohibited.
• Saliva mixed with blood should be treated as a blood exposure.

General Cleanup Principles

Whenever bodily fluids are involved:

• Protect yourself first.
• Wear appropriate PPE.
• Prevent unnecessary exposure.
• Clean and disinfect affected surfaces.
• Wash hands thoroughly afterward.
• Document the incident if required.

Temporary Pool Closure

Certain emergencies require temporarily closing part or all of the facility.

Examples include:

• Serious medical emergencies
• Water rescues
• Chemical incidents
• Fecal contamination
• Active law enforcement investigations
• Situations where staff cannot safely supervise patrons

At Temple Hills Swim Club, many Emergency Action Plan situations may result in a minimum 30-minute closure. This allows staff to:

• Assist emergency responders.
• Evaluate the scene.
• Reset emergency equipment.
• Restore normal operations.
• Prepare lifeguards to safely return to surveillance.

The pool should only reopen after the Pool Operator and/or designated Board Member determines the facility is safe for guests.

Incident Reports: Why Documentation Matters

Once the emergency has ended and the victim has received the appropriate care, the job is not over.

Every significant emergency should be documented accurately and professionally.

Incident reports are not about assigning blame. They exist to:

• Create an accurate record of what occurred.
• Help improve future emergency responses.
• Meet insurance and legal requirements.
• Protect guests, employees, and the facility.
• Identify opportunities for additional staff training.

Professional Pool Operator guidance recommends documenting information such as the date and time of the incident, location, witnesses, type of assistance provided, EMS involvement, staff on duty, and any other relevant details.

At Temple Hills Swim Club, incident reports should be completed as soon as practical after the emergency has been resolved.

Who Completes the Report?

Depending on the situation, reports may involve:

• The responding Lifeguard
• The Pool Operator
• The Manager or Head Guard
• A Board Member

For significant incidents, a Board Member should review the completed report and be present during the final review and signing process before it becomes part of the facility's records.

Information That Should Be Included

A thorough report should include:

• Date and time
• Exact location
• Individuals involved
• Witness names and contact information
• What happened
• Actions taken
• Emergency equipment used
• Whether 911 was called
• EMS arrival time
• Hospital transport (if applicable)
• Names of responding staff
• Any follow-up actions

Remember:

Write only what you observed or did.

Avoid guessing about injuries, assigning blame, or including personal opinions.

Good documentation records facts—not assumptions.

Communicating With Parents, Guardians, and the Public

Clear communication helps reduce confusion during an emergency.

At Temple Hills Swim Club, communication should follow the established chain of command.

Parents and Guardians

Parents should receive clear, factual information regarding their child.

Avoid:

• Speculation
• Medical opinions
• Assumptions
• Sharing information about other guests

If emergency medical personnel are involved, allow them to provide medical updates within their scope of practice.

Media and Social Media

In today's world, information spreads quickly.

Photos and videos can appear online before emergency responders have even left the property.

For that reason:

Only designated Board Members should communicate with:

• News organizations
• Television stations
• Reporters
• Social media regarding the incident
• Members requesting official statements

Staff should never post photos, videos, or details of an emergency involving guests.

Protecting privacy is part of protecting our community.

Returning to Normal Operations

One of the final responsibilities after any emergency is determining when normal operations can safely resume.

Returning to business too quickly can place guests and staff at unnecessary risk.

Before reopening, staff should ensure:

• The emergency has been resolved.
• EMS has completed their work.
• Emergency equipment has been inspected and reset.
• Any hazards have been removed.
• Staff members are emotionally ready to return to surveillance.
• Documentation has begun or been completed as appropriate.

Many emergencies at Temple Hills Swim Club may result in a temporary closure of approximately 30 minutes or longer, depending on the situation.

The facility should only reopen after the designated Pool Operator and/or Board Member determines that it is safe to do so.

Emergency Equipment Every Staff Member Should Know

Every staff member should know where emergency equipment is located before an emergency occurs.

This includes:

• Rescue tubes
• Backboard
• AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
• Oxygen equipment
• First Aid Kit
• Emergency phone
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
• Chemical Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Professional Pool Operator guidance recommends that aquatic facilities maintain readily available rescue equipment, including rescue tubes, reaching poles, ring buoys, backboards, first aid kits, emergency communication systems, emergency phones, and resuscitation equipment.

Knowing where equipment is located saves valuable time during an emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I call 911 even if I'm unsure?

If the situation appears life-threatening or you believe emergency medical care may be needed, activate 911 as soon as possible.

It is better to have trained professionals evaluate a situation than to delay care during a true emergency.

Why does the pool sometimes close after an emergency?

Closing the pool allows staff to:

• Assist emergency responders
• Protect other guests
• Reset emergency equipment
• Complete required procedures
• Ensure the facility is safe before reopening

Safety always comes before convenience.

Why can't everyone help?

While many people want to assist, too many responders can create confusion.

Emergency Action Plans assign specific responsibilities so trained personnel can work efficiently while others help by keeping the area clear and following instructions.

Why are incident reports so important?

Incident reports preserve facts while they are fresh.

They help improve future training, satisfy insurance requirements, and provide an accurate record of the event.

Final Thoughts

Every emergency is different.

No article, handbook, or checklist can predict every situation that may occur at an aquatic facility.

What can make a difference is preparation.

At Temple Hills Swim Club, we believe the best emergency response begins long before an emergency happens. It starts with well-trained lifeguards, knowledgeable Pool Operators, supportive Board Members, responsible guests, and a community that understands the importance of working together.

Emergencies are stressful, but they do not have to become chaotic.

When people stay calm, communicate clearly, trust their training, and support one another, they give themselves the best opportunity to protect lives and reduce harm.

If there is one message we hope every reader takes away from this guide, it is this:

Preparation over panic. Training over guessing. Teamwork over individual heroics.

Whether you're scanning the water from a lifeguard chair, maintaining the pool behind the scenes, serving on the Board, or simply enjoying a summer afternoon with your family, your awareness and cooperation help make Temple Hills Swim Club a safer place for everyone.

Additional Resources

For readers interested in learning more, consider exploring:

• Becoming a Certified Lifeguard
• CPR and AED Training
• Basic First Aid Courses
• Pool Safety for Parents
• Swim Lessons for Children and Adults
• Bloodborne Pathogen Awareness
• Pool Operator Certification
• Temple Hills Swim Club Rules and Membership Information