Water, Water Everywhere (but in a good way)!
Originally published May 25, 2014 (Submission copy)
“Water, water, everywhere, and all the boards did shrink;
Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink” –
from the Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
Orland has its fair share of water – but in a good way! Saturday, May 24th saw the opening of Centennial Park Aquatic Center! This marks the 23rd season of the pool, which remains a premier destination for summer fun. Many changes have been made to the pool over the course of almost a quarter century.
Again this year, a Childcare Provider Pass ($88) is available in conjunction with your Resident Family Membership (must purchase the Resident Family Pass to get the Childcare Pass). This option allows a childcare provider to accompany his/her charge to the pool, making it easier for families that employ a sitter for daytime hours to utilize the pool. The childcare provider must be 18 years of age or older, and be performing in the capacity of care provider while at the pool.
Ray Piattoni, Facility Administrator for the Centennial Park Aquatic Center, provided information regarding the pool. Staff has been in training since March in anticipation of opening day. “Our lifeguards undergo rigorous classes and training, including land training skills such as CPR, AR (artificial respiration or artificial resuscitation), obstructed airway, along with training on the equipment located at the pool; and water based skills to effectively respond to a swimmer in distress. There are two AED (Automated External Defibrillators); they are trained on V-Vac (manual suction units); and use BVM (Bag-Valve-Masks); the use of oxygen and a host of other first-aid equipment,” Mr. Piattoni added.
The Pool has consistently ranked in the top classification for water safety from Starfish Aquatics, an agency that reviews the staff for safety. “Centennial Park Aquatic Center has maintained their rating of five stars (1-5 rating, with 5 being highest) for 14 of the past 15 evaluations,” said Mr. Piattoni.
The staff is evaluated three times a season, with each visit a surprise. Utilizing video equipment, the auditor from Starfish Aquatics watch and evaluate guards ensuring they are performing proper 10/20’s (scanning of the guard’s pool zone). Auditor’s then engage pool staff in mock emergency scenarios evaluating their skill level to the unannounced emergency. The 10/20 Protection Rule states that lifeguards have 10 seconds to scan their Zone of Protection and recognize a swimmer in distress and then has 20 seconds to rescue that victim.
Although they make it seem effortless, they are constantly scanning the water, open areas, tunnels, tubes, jump platforms, and lazy river for any bit of danger. Abiding by the rules of the pool will make everyone’s day easier when you take a trip to the Centennial Park Aquatic Center.
Just south of the pool is our own Lake Sedgewick. Lake Sedgewick is a 95-acre lake, which includes a boat ramp, boardwalk, outdoor amphitheater, gazebo, council ring, nature trails, and hiking paths. This beautiful property is the perfect backdrop for serene photos, or the source of water active fun. Eight kayaks (six single and two tandem) and three pedal boats can be rented from the Centennial Park Aquatic Center on Fridays from noon until 7:00 p.m.; and Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.
Fishing is also available, with fishing licenses being issued through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Remember to pick up the appropriate documentation before heading out to reel in your big catch! Visit http://www.dnr.state.il.us/fish to apply for a license online.
According to the www.orland-park.il.us website: Lake Sedgewick contains bluegill, sunfish, carp, largemouth bass, crappie, bullhead, northern pike, and walleye. Catch and release is encouraged. You may not take frogs, turtles or mussels. A two-pole limit is enforced; and shoreline fishing is only allowed in certain areas. You may not fish off the docks or boat launch, and you may not use a seine or net. Boats must leave the bay area while fishing. Swimming and wading is prohibited. No more than 12 boats are allowed on the lake at one time. Boats may only be launched and retrieved at the boat launch.
As far as bringing your own watercraft in (instead of renting the kayaks or pedal boats, the website details these guidelines: Boats with electric trolling motors are allowed. Gas motors must be propped in the “up” position. Maximum boat length is 16 feet. No jet skis or inflatable boats are allowed. You must have one Coast Guard approved wearable life jacket for each person on board. All boats 16 feet in length must contain at least one Type IV throwable personal flotation device in addition to above. Each boat must have at least one oar or paddle.
So – let’s hope the sky clears, the weather warms, and Orland Parkers can have sunny days out on the lake, or in the pool!