Hannibal aquatics director earns award from the American Red Cross

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Jenna McDonald, aquatics director at Hannibal Parks and Recreation, recently earned the Aquatic Examiner Service award from the American Red Cross.

The award was given for excellent evaluations from the Aquatic Examiner Service program. McDonald trains up to 30 lifeguards each year for water safety proficiency at the Hannibal Aquatic Center. The Aquatic Examiner Service is designed to increase lifeguard accountability, attention to safety, professionalism and pride; along with strengthening lifeguards’ emergency response skills.

In a press release, McDonald said, “The evaluation allows the Hannibal Aquatic Center to maintain high lifeguard operational standards. Safety is our No. 1 priority at the Hannibal Aquatic Center.”

Aquatic examiners conduct unannounced visits to evaluate the performance of lifeguards and lifeguarding operations. McDonald said each evaluation allows the staff to review water rescue and emergency procedures and evaluate response times several times during the pool season.

The Aquatic Center opens at noon Saturday, May 28.