BUENA PARK, Calif. -- Knott's Soak City waterpark can now add another honor to its already impressive record. This summer Soak City lifeguard Brock Falfas, 19, was bestowed the Golden Guard Award from the risk management consulting firm Jeff Ellis and Associates, a leader in aquatic safety consulting for water parks worldwide.

The award, which is given to lifeguards who are employed at waterparks, city parks or hotels, involves a rigorous review. The consulting firm makes three random unannounced audits each season and videotapes lifeguards on duty rating them in the areas of professionalism, knowledge, life-saving skills, and guest interaction. "Each auditor can only give ...