Episode 92: COVID-19 Coronavirus: Pool Industry Resources with Sabeena, Janay, and Jennifer of PHTA
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In this episode we sat down with Sabeena Hickman, Janay Rickwalder, and Jennifer Hatfield of the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), to discuss their recent efforts in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis. With the number of cases of the coronavirus in the USA increasing, most states have issued some sort of social distancing or shelter in place orders. This has caused a ripple effect that this country has not seen since the world war era and that many were not prepared for. We are all adjusting to changes in some way to the “new normal” of work from home scenarios and at-home learning. Luckily for us, the pool industry has been labeled as an essential service in most areas. Since the beginning, PHTA has been working tirelessly to fight for your right to be deemed an essential business and continues to do so in those areas where that may be unclear.
We discuss their website specifically dedicated to coronavirus updates and resources to help you navigate through these times. On the site, you will see several resource options. 1. State and Local Government Information, here is where you can look for your state and see the most up to date orders. 2. Customer Communications, here you can find customer messaging for essential pool maintenance services with customizable documents. 3. Federal Assistance, here you can find information on the CARES Act among other assistance related resources. 4. Workplace Safeguards, here you can find the CDC recommendations for best practices and the COVID-19 Surface Disinfection Poster. We also dive into some personal and business ideas for you to try and make the most of the situation. This is not your typical coronavirus conversation; this one is tailored to you. You don’t want to miss it!
PHTA (Pool & Hot Tub Alliance) Resources:
coronavirus Covid-19 Resources Mentioned:
Show Notes
[02:08] - Introduction to Sabeena Hickman, Janay Rickwalder, and Jennifer Hatfield of the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance
[05:49] - This is unlike anything we have seen before
[07:30] - How PHTA is making adjustments in their organization
[11:22] - Getting family on schedule become more productive and less stressed
[17:53] - Janay son missing out on his senior year in high school
[19:53] - Exchanging memes for a little comic relief
[22:44] - Pool service is essential and the discussion about health and safety
[31:53] - National Drowning Prevention Association fearful of drownings increasing during these times
[35:42] - CSA document and what qualifies as an essential business
[39:36] - It should be more clear now than ever what PHTA does for the swimming pool industry
[43:07] - How can companies can communicate the Coronavirus message
[45:11] - Template letter written by Sabeena you can send to legislation
[46:58] - If you don’t have emails now is the time to collect them… and this is why
[48:34] - Being proactive by communicating to your city and state
[50:51] - Nurture relationships now and forever. Don’t just ask for guidance when times get difficult
[53:39] - Customizable flyers and more from PHTA on their website
[57:47] - This is what your business can do right now
[59:51] - When things are slow you can updating SOP’s, update your website and more suggestions
[01:02:17] - Opportunities with people staying home and not traveling.
[01:05:52] - Positive mindset during these uncertain times
[01:08:35] - Expand your companies resilience zone statement read by Sabeena
[01:12:00] - Enjoying the pool and backyard with family right now
[01:13:22] - Best way to prepare for this type of event in the future