Hultgren earns certification in aquatic facility operator, American Red Cross lifeguard instruction

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Emily Hultgren, aquatics director and recreation supervisor for Hannibal Parks and Recreation, recently earned certifications as aquatic facility operator and American Red Cross lifeguard instruction.

As an aquatic facility operator, Hultgren passed tests to prove comprehension of all basic design, mechanical and operational concepts involved in the functioning of an institutional/commercial swimming pool. The training included familiarity with all systems, equipment and peripherals required to contain, circulate, filter, heat and treat swimming pool water. In the written test, she demonstrated proficiency in all related concepts for the assurance of patron and employee health and safety.

As American Red Cross lifeguard instructor, Hultgren passed written and skills tests to demonstrate lifesaving expertise. The certification allows her to teach American Red Cross lifeguarding, lifeguarding blended learning, shallow water lifeguarding, aquatic attraction lifeguarding, waterpark skills, CPR/AED for professional rescuers and bloodborne pathogens training.

Hultgren became aquatics director/recreation supervisor in August. For the next season at the Hannibal Aquatic Center, she will train at least 30 lifeguards to earn American Red Cross lifeguard certification which includes lifeguarding skills, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, automated external defibrillator and first aid implementation. Hultgren will train front desk/concession staff members, along with Parks and Recreation staff and maintenance employees in first aid, CPR and AED.