Audits show some Columbia pools received 3-star ratings in 2024
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Audits from the City of Columbia ABC 17 News received show some pools received a three-star rating in 2024.
Superintendent for the Activity and Recreation Center Cavelle Cole-Neal said the city completes one audit in the winter, one in the spring and one at each pool during the summer months. According to Cole-Neal, the city uses feedback from auditors to help train and improve its staff.
An audit from April shows the ARC received a four-star rating, with five stars being the highest rating possible.
Comments from the audit indicate lifeguards were attentive during their five-minute strategy on the stand. However, it was recommended that lifeguards do a better job of constantly moving while scanning the pool.
It was also suggested that the city works on building skills individually, as well as a team.
In June, the Albert Oakland Aquatic Center received a three-star rating, according to records.
While it was noted that the staff at the pool communicated well during group skills and the pool had lifejackets of varying sizes, some problems were found. According to the audit, the facility did not have an AED trainer at the location, while the other two outdoor pools did.
It also pointed out that when managers and lifeguards need to have conversations, they should be kept brief.
The most recent audit completed in July shows the Douglass Family Aquatic Center received three stars. Records indicate the staff on hand was engaged and demonstrated attentiveness to their zones of coverage.
However, it was stated that lifeguards are encouraged to ensure they are scanning the "extreme zones" during their scanning process. That includes the bottom, corners and other areas that are hard to see.
The audit also shows there were delays during the individual CPR portion due to lifeguards not having a clear understanding of the knowledge needed to execute the care properly. It was suggested that the city practice these skills more to ensure its lifeguards are confident.
Cole-Neal said he hopes the city can improve staffing at its pools in 2025.
"Lifeguards tend to stick around for you know, 2 to 4 years. And so for us, it's how can we help them grow over that time," Cole-Neal said. "Also, there's opportunity to build confidence. So, when it comes to leaving in an emergency situation and practicing those life-saving skills for some of our younger staff."
