As Water Rescue Training was the evening's topic, we were fortunate the storm moved away in time. For those that might harbor concern about water and lightning safety? Not to worry! First, we are in the business of safety. Second, Kent County Parks and Recreation has a rigidly enforced regulation about the Worton Pool and Lightning Safety, which we respect and totally admire. If thunder rumbles? The lifeguards immediately evacuate the pool AND the pool compound / enclosure. The exclusion lasts for 30 minutes, unless there is another rumble of thunder, at which time the 30-minute clock starts over.

Our pool reservation (after closing) was for 6:45 pm. At 6:51 pm, thunder rumbled and we evacuated the pool area. There was joking about not setting a bad example! We didn't get back in until 7:21 pm. The lecture part of the training went on outside the pool area.

Concepts of using life rings, throw bags, and other equipment to effect a water rescue were reviewed. After admittance into the pool, these concepts were reviewed again, this time with actual practice. Additionally, we covered the procedure of recovering a patient in the water whom has a suspected spinal and / or head injury. It's a tricky procedure that if done incorrectly (as in most things) can cause additional injury.

We would take this opportunity to express our Thanks and Appreciation to the Kent County Parks & Recreation for allowing us use of the county pool. We'd also like to thank the Lifeguards that stayed to cover us while we were in the pool. While they are trained Rescue Swimmers, we are not. They weren't needed, but their presence was invaluable.

We'd like to especially thank Avery Boege for reviewing different water rescue techniques, and actually got in the water to help demonstrate them.