Skokie Lifeguards Receive Award for Risk Management, Rescue Preparedness

Skokie Park District’s lifeguard staff has been given the 5-Star Award in risk management and rescue preparedness, the highest award from Starfish Aquatics Institute, a nationally recognized certification agency, according to Skokie Park District’s website.  

“Very few aquatic facilities qualify to receive this honor,” Leslie Donavan, president of SAI was quoted saying on the district's website. “It represents a tremendous commitment to safety and training, as well as exceptional performance when on duty.” 

Skokie Park District was one of only 26 agencies out of 180 in the nation to receive the 5-star award for their efforts in 2012. This is the second year in a row that the district has received the award.

In addition, 23 individual lifeguards were singled out for their 5-star performances during scanning observations, water rescue scenarios and CPR/first aid scenarios. Camila Marquez was observed three times and received a 5-star rating each time. Dejon Johnson, Maytal Maor, Josh Doo, Creighton Pyles and Lexy Pyles were all observed twice and received a 5-star rating both times.