When you splash into Springs Water Park at The Ingleside Hotel, you can relax knowing you are in good hands. Our lifeguards are highly trained professionals, certified through Ellis & Associates International Lifeguard Training Program (ILTP). Becoming one of these certified lifeguards takes commitment, skill, and ongoing development. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to join the team.
Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Certification
All Springs Water Park lifeguards are required to complete the Ellis & Associates ILTP course, a comprehensive program designed for aquatic facilities around the globe. This is not your average lifeguard training — it’s widely regarded as one of the most rigorous and respected programs in the industry.
Initial training includes:
- Water rescue techniques for various scenarios
- Spinal injury management
- CPR/AED certification for professional rescuers
- First aid and emergency response
- Surveillance and scanning skills
- Team-based rescue drills
Training is both classroom-based and hands-on in the water, with a strong focus on real-time scenarios and decision-making under pressure. Lifeguards must pass both written and physical skills tests to earn certification.
VAT – Vigilance Awareness Training
After certification, training does not stop. One of the most unique components of the Ellis system is VAT, or Vigilance Awareness Training.
At Springs Water Park, our lifeguards undergo random, unannounced tests using manikins placed in the water to assess each guard’s ability to detect within 10 seconds and respond within 20 seconds. This ensures that lifeguards remain alert and proactive — every minute of every shift.
Weekly In-Service Training
Safety is never a “set it and forget it” process. To maintain certification and stay rescue-ready, Ingleside lifeguards participate in weekly in-service training (90 minutes) and pre/post shift in-service (20 minutes). These sessions reinforce:
- Rescue and CPR skills
- First aid protocol
- Emergency action plans
- Team communication and coordination
- Realistic rescue scenarios
Recertification and Audits
Every year, our lifeguards must rectify through Ellis & Associates, demonstrating that they continue to meet the rigorous standards of the ILTP. In addition, unannounced audits by Ellis representatives help ensure our staff performs at peak levels during real-life situations.
These audits review:
- Scanning effectiveness
- Rescue readiness
- Professionalism and communication
- Cleanliness and safety of the aquatic environment
Why It Matters
Choosing a hotel with an Ellis & Associates certified lifeguard team gives families peace of mind. At Springs Water Park, our lifeguards are trained not just to respond — but to prevent emergencies through vigilance, quick thinking, and consistent training. Whether you’re sliding down water slides or relaxing in the lazy river, you can trust that your safety is our top priority.