Memorial Day is upon us, which means the unofficial start of summer, and usually marks the start of pool season.
With swimming pools given the green light to open, what does that mean for those concerned about the spread of coronavirus?
Starting this weekend, the city will open three pools; Collier pool, the Natatorium, and West Guth pool.
“We are going to restrict the number of people in the facility to 25 percent capacity, as recommended by the governor. We are going to allow 25 people into Collier pool, we are going to allow 60 people into the Natatorium, and 60 people into the West Guth pool,” said Parks and Recreation Aquatics Program Manager Caleb Harris.
The COVID-19 pandemic has many questioning whether it is safe to be around the water for fear of contracting the virus.
“Typical pool chlorine at normal levels that is mandated by the state’s codes already is more than enough to inactivate the COVID-19, flu virus, and other things. We will have our staff on a rotating schedule, cleaning handrails, cleaning bathroom handles, everything that people touch; we will have an hourly schedule cleaning and sanitize things as much as possible,” said Harris.
As far as the other city pools opening, that has been put on hold until they hire at least 30 lifeguards.
“They don’t need to be certified; we will train them. We have trainers on staff so we will train them if they can meet the other qualifications,” said Harris.
While a trip to the pool won’t be what it was before the pandemic hit, you can take simple measures to keep yourself safe while enjoying the water. Practice social distancing and practice good hygiene.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no evidence that coronavirus can be spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas or water play areas.
For more information on becoming a lifeguard visit : https://www.cctexas.com/detail/join-our-team