By 1808Delaware
As fall has arrived, the city of Westerville paused to recognize those who helped make this past summer safe and memorable. During a recent City Council meeting at City Hall, essential members of the Westerville Parks and Recreation team were honored for their dedication and outstanding service throughout the summer season.
Lifeguards Acknowledged for Exceptional Service
The lifeguard staff at Westerville’s Highland Park Aquatics Center (HPAC) and the Community Center pool received the city’s “Lifeguard Appreciation Proclamation.” The team’s dedication and vigilance have been crucial in ensuring community safety at these aquatic centers, serving hundreds of families over the summer.
Mayor Kenneth L. Wright kicked off the city council session by presenting the proclamation, praising the team for their dedication, which included 74 water rescues and administering first aid 39 times in June, July, and August alone.
“The main cause of drowning accidents in the U.S. is inadequate supervision, particularly for children and weak swimmers,” Mayor Wright said, citing the proclamation. “Lifeguard surveillance is essential to reducing drowning deaths and other aquatic injuries. Multiple bystanders and emergency personnel have remarked on this lifeguard crew’s professionalism, quick responses, and calmness under pressure.”
Behind the Numbers: A Lifeguard’s Role
Kelley Flynn, Parks and Recreation Facilities Supervisor, spoke on behalf of the 134 full-time and part-time lifeguards who serve Westerville’s aquatic facilities, including the Highland Park Aquatics Center during the summer and the year-round Indoor Pool Complex at the Community Center. Flynn expressed deep appreciation for their unwavering commitment.
“Every day our lifeguards exemplify commitment, courage, and community spirit,” Flynn noted. “They are not just guardians of our pools but vital protectors of our community’s well-being.”
Flynn went on to stress that the success of both aquatics centers would not be possible without the peace of mind provided by the lifeguard staff. Their vigilance allowed families to enjoy the summer knowing that their safety was the lifeguards’ top priority.
“Their dedication goes beyond monitoring the water,” Flynn added. “They are trained professionals ready to respond in emergencies, ensuring the safety of every swimmer, regardless of age or ability. This proclamation serves as a testament to the hard work and training our lifeguards undertake.”
Aquatics Centers: Fun and Safety Combined
Westerville’s Highland Park Aquatics Center, which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offers fun features like a speed and body slide tower, a toddler pool with a rock slide, a lazy river, and an eight-lane pool with a diving well. The indoor facilities at the Westerville Community Center, open year-round, provide additional swimming experiences, including a competition pool, a leisure pool with interactive equipment, and a 159-gallon water bucket for some splashy excitement.
Flynn highlighted that beyond keeping an eye on the water, lifeguards also ensure an environment where safety, learning, and fun can coexist. “My goal is that what they learn here will go with them into the world and will help them navigate the many different situations they may face… and equip them to handle life’s challenges,” Flynn said.
“Together, our lifeguards create an environment where safety is paramount, and every team member plays a critical role,” she concluded.
Be Part of the Team
Westerville’s commitment to safety and community spirit is clearly reflected in its aquatics staff. If you’re interested in becoming a lifeguard and making a difference in your community, explore the opportunities available. Lifeguarding is not just about keeping an eye on swimmers—it’s about developing skills that last a lifetime, from teamwork and leadership to crisis management.
An archived stream of the October 15 City Council meeting can be viewed online at Westerville.org.
For more details about Westerville’s Aquatics Facilities and the Community Center, visit the links below:
Interested in joining the team? Become a Westerville Lifeguard.
Source, Photo: City of Westerville
