Aquatic facilities can significantly reduce the probability of being involved in litigation by: having emergency readiness plans; hiring qualified personnel who understand their responsibilities; having appropriate coverage for the facility's size and design; properly designing and maintaining facilities and equipment; keeping accurate records;…

This article presents an explanation of the benefits of exercises done in the water and describes several water fitness programs implemented by an Oklahoma YMCA center. Water walking is described, and guidelines and cautions are given to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks of this form of exercise. (IAH)

This article identifies the major risks faced by young children in aquatic programs, outlines several methods for managing risk factors, and discusses the steps involved in implementing a risk-management system. (IAH)

Describes the advantages of using plyometric programs in the water, explaining that they may provide athletes with several benefits (e.g., added resistance, which increases muscle strength, and getting a break from more monotonous drills on land). The paper discusses: the physical properties of water, aquatic rehabilitation that incorporates…

Lists eight steps to a safe waterfront, one of which is creating an emergency action plan. American Camping Association standards call for a written, rehearsed emergency action plan for aquatics programs. In creating a plan, one should consider one's resources, the camp layout, types of emergencies, and basic procedures. Staff training and plan…

Presents suggestions for departments of health, physical education, and recreation that are planning to develop their own aquatics programs, focusing on: the prevalence of collegiate aquatics programs; course offerings in an aquatics minor; practicums and internships; graduate programs in aquatics; cross-disciplinary appeal; marketing the aquatics…

Designed for elementary school teachers and administrators, this guide describes instructional activities for teaching students basic water safety and swimming skills. Objectives are outlined and lesson plans for beginners and more advanced learners are offered. Appendices include an activity chart, instructor evaluation form, time sheet, student…

This bulletin shares information regarding adaptive equipment, recommended interventions, precautions, and fun activities related to aquatic activities and exercise for persons with handicapping conditions. The bulletin begins with a list of 13 safety precautions and then describes instructional aids, adaptive aids, fitness-oriented devices, and…

Overviews certification changes affecting lifeguard training, progressive swimming instructors, CPR and first aid training, canoeing and kayaking instructors, sailing instructors, water skiing instructors, and instructor trainers. Addresses how changes impact American Camping Association standards. Provides addresses of training organizations. (LP)

Drowning prevention is a focus of safety professionals nationwide. Many local coalitions provide ongoing activities and can give advice on how to get started. The article describes different community drowning prevention programs, looks at various resources, and explains how to begin and maintain local drowning prevention programs. (SM)

This book offers guidelines for planning and designing cost-effective community recreation and sports facilities and open spaces in Australia. Seven chapters include: (1) "Benefits of Recreation and Sport" (e.g., quality of life, and diversity of recreation and sport); (2) "Provision of Recreation and Sport Open Spaces" (e.g.,…

This booklet is designed to sensitize and inform the scuba diving instructor on appropriate attitudes and successful methods for teaching scuba diving to persons with physical disability. It addresses misconceptions about people with disabilities and the importance of effective two-way communication and mutual respect between instructors and…

Presents strategies and techniques to help instructors and directors promote successful inclusive aquatics programs for students with disabilities, discussing the importance of considering issues related to: teaching style, collaborative planning, goal determination, appropriate inclusive placement, personnel preparation, curriculum adaptation,…

This paper proposes state regulations for the training of child care staff members in developmentally appropriate safe aquatic practices, outlines required features of any pools that children visit, and suggests safe practices for water-related activities at child care centers and swimming pools. The staff training regulation suggestions include…

This publication has been prepared to provide scientific divers with guidance on safe practice under varying experimental and environmental conditions. The Code offers advice and recommendations on administrative practices, insurance, terms of employment, medical standards, training standards, dive planning, safety with different breathing gases…