Sports & Recreation Expert specializing in Aquatic Safety: Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, Waterparks, Resorts, SCUBA Diving—Drowning, Diving Injuries, Disease Transmission, Equipment Operation, Chemical Handling

Maria Bella is an expert in sports and recreation and specializes in aquatic safety. She is one of only four Aquatic Facility Operator Instructor Trainers in the world and has been active in the aquatics industry for more than 30 years. Bella holds a degree in Aquatic Engineering, has designed swimming pool complexes, and has participated in the research and development of chemical treatment systems.

In addition to providing forensic consulting, Bella owns two companies created to increase safety at swimming areas. She personally provides instruction to directors of college/university, municipal, school district, hotel/motel, and water park facilities in standard of care for plant operations as well as training and supervision of lifeguards and maintenance staff. Bella is an authorized instructor for the American Red Cross, National Swimming Pool Foundation, and National Recreation and Park Association. She is active in several national standards writing committees, including the Center for Disease Control Model Aquatic Health Code and the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals Suction Entrapment Prevention committees.

In addition to operating aquatic facilities for nearly three decades, Bella coached competitive swimming for 15 years and worked with athletes ranging from novice through national caliber. She is a member of the World Waterpark Association (WWA), National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO), and is an Executive Board Member of Professional Pool Operators of America (PPOA). Bella holds numerous national and international certifications, and has been qualified to testify in state and federal court.