Create a more positive atmosphere by changing pool signage wording
Pool management relies on several factors to help maintain safety – from pool design, to lifeguards to pool signage. When it comes to pool signage, it can be easy to overlook the wording on the signs.
Signage required by law should never be altered in order to maintain pool compliance. A pool professional can give insight on state and federally regulated signs. For additional pool signs, positive reinforcement and great design can go a long way. Rather than cover the facility with signs that say “DO NOT” or that are old and worn out, consider asking “Please” and updating signs with a new design.
Take a new outlook on signs
All aquatic facilities have pool signage. Managers rely on this signage to convey important messages to swimmers and reinforce the pool rules.
Patrons may rather be told to please walk instead of being told not to run, and signs can be worded to support that message.
Redesign signage
Management services will want to consult property managers for ideas and to discuss the possibility of the project. It’s a relatively small-scale project compared to the others that an aquatic facility can take to improve the atmosphere. Additionally, it’s a subtle change that frequent patrons will notice and appreciate. Consider using new colors to attract attention and brighten up the atmosphere more.
This shouldn’t be limited to the larger signs throughout the pool itself. Take a closer look at signs in the bathroom, including instructions on showering or what can’t be flushed down toilets. For a better idea of patron experience, start from the front door and go through the motions of a typical swimmer visiting the facility. You might run into signs that you had forgotten about. Additionally, you might discover that more signage is necessary in certain areas of the bathrooms or the pool.
Reassess words
This project should also be discussed with all staff members, especially client-facing employees. After all, the overall atmosphere of the pool should be cohesive, and if the signs are enforcing a positive message but lifeguards are still shouting “Do not run,” it creates a disconnect that may not be immediately noticed but has a more subtle effect on patrons and the setting of the pool.
There are so many safety precautions and measures to be taken that the smaller details can sometimes be overlooked. However, these are equally important aspects of safety that affect patrons and staff members.
