The Coppell Aquatic & Recreation Center has received recognition for its safe aquatic facilities.

The Aquatic Center was given the "Gold International Aquatic Safety Award" by Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc. for continually surpassing industry standards in risk management and exemplifying aquatic safety excellence.

"It is apparent that the entire staff embodies the idea of setting the standard in aquatic safety, and swimmers who frequent this aquatic facility are afforded the highest degree of swimmer protection currently available for the aquatic industry," said Richard Carroll, senior vice president and chief operating officer at Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc.

International Aquatic Safety Awards are given annually by Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc., which is a safety and risk management organization that focuses on preventing and eliminating aquatic-related problems, to participants who must undergo random, unannounced safety audits during the year. The audits range from undercover video surveillance of lifeguards to administrative, supervisory and facility evaluations.

"All (Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc.) client facilities are top performers and represent the finest and safest aquatic facilities in the world," according to a news release from the City of Coppell. "As such, it is of particular note when (Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc.) facilities perform so well that they are granted an International Aquatic Safety Award."

Coppell's Aquatic and Recreation Center has participated in risk management program since it opened in 2000. The Center just completed a $7 million expansion and renovation project, which added 11,000 square feet to the already existing facility.