Halloween is the perfect time for aquatics professionals to show off their creativity and humor! From lifeguards and swim coaches to pool techs and aquatics directors, these 12 Spirit Halloween-inspired costumes bring poolside fun to spooky season. Whether for a party, work event, or just a laugh, these clever aquatic-themed costume ideas will have everyone smiling. Dive in and find the perfect costume to make a splash this Halloween!

Creating a motivated lifeguard team starts before the first shift. Fun, engaging icebreakers help build trust, communication, and camaraderie. From CPR song battles and safety scavenger hunts to lifeguard Lego challenges, these activities make training memorable while strengthening teamwork. Set the stage for a connected, confident, and safety-focused team this season.

Learn how to leverage end-of-season data from your pool’s facilities, equipment, and lifeguard staff. Identify trends, improve operations, and plan for a safer, more efficient season ahead.

Learn effective strategies to engage your lifeguard team during in-service training. Explore empowerment, partnerships, themed sessions, and gamification to build skills, teamwork, and safety awareness.

Discover team-building strategies to engage your lifeguard team during in-service training. Learn to boost trust, communication, problem-solving, and skill retention with activities that strengthen teamwork and readiness for any situation.

Discover techniques for realistic lifeguard training that prepare teams for real emergencies. Explore simulations, moulage, first responder collaboration, and DIY equipment to build skills, confidence, and safety readiness.

Kick off Summer 2024 with Team HydroApps’ curated playlist! From swimming-themed tracks and CPR training beats to summer classics and team motivation songs, this list keeps your aquatic facility grooving all season.

May is Water Safety Month! Discover how HydroApps helps aquatic facilities enhance safety and compliance with real-time alerts, MAHC checklists, pool closure management, and centralized documentation. Keep your pools safe, compliant, and ready for every guest.

Introducing HydroApps’ Schedule Manager—the scheduling solution designed by aquatic professionals for aquatic professionals. Streamline staff scheduling across multiple pools, reduce errors, cut labor costs, and improve team communication with features like SwiftShift™ insta-scheduling, shift trades, and real-time alerts.

Welcome to Schedule Manager 101—your complete guide to mastering HydroApps’ scheduling module. Learn how to set up schedules, assign shifts, manage availability, handle sub requests, and use reports to streamline aquatic operations and boost team satisfaction.

Aquatics Manager at the City of Denton, TX As a Parks and Recreation Manager for 23 years, Monica has seen the transition from paper to...

HydroHacks is your go-to guide for saving time and getting the most out of HydroApps. Learn tips and tricks to streamline staff scheduling, manage certifications, enhance checklists, track no-shows, and more—all designed to simplify operations and improve efficiency.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are vital in aquatics. This curated collection of DEI resources—from swimwear policies to ADA guides—helps aquatic professionals create safe, welcoming, and equitable environments. Use these tools to build inclusive pools, programs, and communities where everyone feels valued.

Meet Mike Steele, Vice President of Operations for Aqua-Tots in Atlanta and Washington D.C.

Start the year strong with 12 New Year’s resolutions tailored for aquatic operators. From staff appreciation and event planning to data review and tech adoption, these ideas help streamline operations, strengthen leadership, and foster balance. HydroApps is here to support your 2024 goals.

Digital documentation is the secret weapon for CAPRA accreditation. From streamlining processes and enabling real-time updates to supporting sustainability and compliance, digital tools like HydroApps make the rigorous process more efficient and effective. Learn how technology can transform your agency’s accreditation journey.

This Thanksgiving, take time to show gratitude for the people who keep your aquatics operations running—lifeguards, HR, IT, admin, and maintenance teams. From simple thank-you notes to thoughtful treats and gestures, explore creative ways to recognize and celebrate your staff. A little appreciation goes a long way in building stronger teams and culture.

HydroApps is now available through BuyBoard, giving members exclusive discounts and a faster, easier procurement process. As a digital documentation solution, HydroApps helps recreation facilities lower risk, reduce costs, enhance safety, and streamline operations, all without the hassle of bid solicitation.

Every aquatic facility needs a fully stocked first aid kit that meets ANSI, MAHC, and Red Cross standards. From bandages and burn dressings to CPR barriers and splints, this guide outlines the essential supplies lifeguards need on hand. Learn how to keep kits stocked, inspected, and accessible so your team is always ready to respond.

Being an aquatic professional is rewarding yet demanding. In this open letter, one aquatics leader shares the highs, challenges, and the support they hope for during pool season. From long days and constant responsibility to the joy of making an impact in the community, this letter offers perspective and appreciation for those who keep facilities safe and fun all summer long.