PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.—During three annual 2012 safety audits, Dollywood’s Splash Country’s aquatics staff received two “exceeds standards” and one “meets standards” ratings from industry experts Ellis & Associates.

“Guest safety is our top priority at Dollywood’s Splash Country and that makes these three prestigious industry ratings for our aquatics team even more important to us,” said Vice President of Waterparks and Cabins Amy Owenby. “Safety audits like these conducted by Ellis & Associates ensure that our team is well prepared to meet our guests’ needs.”

Performed by international aquatic safety expert Ellis & Associates, the unannounced audit uses hidden video surveillance to evaluate each lifeguard’s response to simulated emergencies within their Zone of Protection.® Upon completion of the video surveillance, an Ellis & Associates auditor tests the basic life support and rescue skills of the staff through simulated emergencies intended to measure the effectiveness of a facility’s emergency action plan. The audit concludes with administrative, supervisory and facility evaluations.
Dollywood’s Splash Country lifeguards undergo multiple unannounced audits during the waterpark’s operating season. The audits are a mandatory component of Ellis & Associates’ Comprehensive Aquatic Risk Management Program.

“Earning this rating is a remarkable accomplishment,” said Richard A. Carroll, Ellis & Associates Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “Dollywood’s Splash Country’s lifeguards are on the top of their game. The guests at this facility are getting the highest degree of swimmer protection available in the aquatic industry.”

Lifeguards have no knowledge that they are under surveillance nor do they receive advance notice of the test during an emergency rescue simulation.

Dollywood’s Splash Country’s 2012 season continues through Sept. 3 with 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. operating hours on Aug. 25 and 26 and Sept. 1-3.

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