Exploring the Unique Challenges of Water Park Lifeguarding with Steven Murphy

The LIFESAVING CHRONICLES Podcast

Send us a text

Welcome back to the LIFESAVING CHRONICLES podcast! I'm your host, Dave Kotz, and in today's episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Steven Murphy, a seasoned lifeguard instructor and the owner of Missouri Aquatics Training and Education Solution (MATES). With a rich background that includes military service and a career in history education, Steven brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to our discussion on the nuances of lifeguarding at water parks compared to traditional pool facilities.
Steven shared insights from his 14 years in aquatics, highlighting the differences in training and operational challenges between water parks and municipal pools. He emphasized the unique aspects of water park lifeguarding, such as managing wave pools and high-intensity slides, which require specialized training and strategies to ensure guest safety.
We also delved into the impact of alcohol at water parks and how it affects guest behavior and safety. Steven recounted his experiences with various safety incidents and the preventive measures parks implement to maintain a safe environment.
An interesting part of our conversation focused on the motivational strategies for lifeguards, particularly teenagers, involving incentives like food rewards or custom gear. Steven's approach to team management reflects a deep understanding of what drives young lifeguards to perform their best.
This episode was not only informative but also packed with engaging stories from Steven's diverse career. Whether you're a lifeguard, a water park enthusiast, or just curious about aquatic safety, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the challenges and rewards of lifeguarding at water parks.
Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to bringing you more insightful discussions in future episodes of the LIFESAVING CHRONICLES podcast. Remember you can watch our podcasts on YouTube and stay tuned for more platforms coming soon!
Podcast Disclaimer: By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the National Safety Training Center (NSTC) makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this Podcast. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional advice. The content isn't a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the NSTC does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organization presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. The 3rd party materials or content of any 3rd party site referenced in this Podcast don't necessarily reflect the opinions, standards or policies of the NSTC. The NSTC assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy or completeness of the content contained in 3rd party materials or on 3rd party sites referenced in this Podcast or the compliance with applicable laws of such materials and/or links referenced herein. NSTC makes no warranty that this Podcast, or the server that makes it available, is free of viruses or other elements or codes that manifest destructive properties.