Foley, Ala.— Tropic Falls at OWA was recently awarded the 2023 Silver International Aquatic Safety Award by Jeff Ellis & Associates. The silver distinction is awarded to facilities who consistently exceed aquatic safety criteria for certification during a given year. This distinction comes as May is recognized as National Water Safety Month and is a time to raise awareness about the importance of water safety and drowning prevention.
“I am very proud of the dedication and commitment to safety that my staff has demonstrated in order to earn this recognition,” said Mike Neace, General Manager of Tropic Falls at OWA. “Safety is our top priority and this award is a direct reflection of our team’s effort.”
Ellis & Associates is an international aquatic safety and risk management consulting firm dedicated to the prevention and elimination of drowning. They provide lifeguard training, aquatic risk management services, accident investigation, learn to swim courses, and continuing education programs for aquatic facilities around the world.
As an Ellis & Associates licensed facility, Tropic Falls receives unannounced quarterly audits. During these audits, the facility is graded on the following criteria: individual lifeguard observation, supervisor observation, vigilance awareness evaluation, simulated emergency observation, and a facility administration evaluation.
Based on the outcomes of the most recent audits, the team at Tropic Falls earned this prestigious Silver International Aquatic Safety award, which is only presented to 30% of Ellis & Associates’ accredited facilities.
In addition to lessons and training received prior to hiring, each lifeguard at Tropic Falls undergoes more than 25 hours of specialized training before their first day as a lifeguard. They also dedicate at least four additional training hours each month towards this continuing education.
For all the latest information and events at OWA Parks & Resort, visit www.visitowa.com.
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About OWA Parks & Resort: OWA Parks & Resort features Tropic Falls with 23 theme-park rides, outdoor wave pool and indoor water park plus Downtown OWA, a dining, shopping & entertainment destination—all just minutes from Alabama beaches on the Foley Beach Express. Downtown OWA is open seven days a week; check website for Tropic Falls seasonal hours, special offers and calendar of events!