Golden Nugget on State Fire Marshal’s two-strikes list

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - Golden Nugget Lake Charles has two strikes against it, according to the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) reports several inspections were conducted by the office after reports of crowded pools and swim-up bars at the Golden Nugget.

“In at least two inspections, the Golden Nugget was found to be in violation of the state-mandated regulations in its pool area,” said Ashley Rodrigue, OSFM Public Affairs Director.

Rodrigue says having two inspections with violations does not mean punitive action immediately follows another violation. She says it depends on the severity and frequency of said issue.

Golden Nugget General Manager Gregory Hennagin says after the last inspection at Golden Nugget, the casino has been working with the OSFM to train employees on social distancing practices to best keep themselves and visitors of the resort safe.

Hennagin says the pool area is limited to hotel guests, who must be wearing a wristband. The Golden Nugget is also taking a headcount of pool-area guests every hour to ensure the resort meets the 50-percent capacity limit mandated by the state order.

Hennagin also says in conjunction with the governor’s mandate, guests can order food in the resort’s pool area.

”We’re are doing our best to be good community partners and keep as many people employed as we can,” said Hennagin.

Rodrique and Hennagin both say the casino has already met with the OSFM for training and another session is planned this week.

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