What type of emergencies should EAPs specifically address?

Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) are designed to provide a structured response to a wide variety of emergencies in aquatic environments. The purpose of an EAP is to ensure that lifeguards and other facility staff are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to any situation that could compromise the safety of patrons and staff.

Since emergencies can arise from multiple scenarios—including medical emergencies, drowning incidents, facility evacuations, or environmental hazards—it is essential that EAPs cover all potential emergencies. This comprehensive approach allows staff to act confidently and uniformly, minimizing confusion and effectively managing the situation at hand.

However, it’s important to note that while weather-related incidents and technical malfunctions can disrupt operations, they are specific cases that fall under a larger category of emergencies that include less common but equally critical emergencies, such as active shooter situations or major facility accidents. General facility maintenance issues, while important to overall safety, do not typically fall under the immediate action required by an EAP. Thus, EAPs are characterized by their inclusive nature toward all emergencies, ensuring readiness for any situation that may compromise safety.