Pool management services know how difficult it can be to keep track of swimmers during peak hours in the summer. One method of tracking swimmers’ ability is swimming tests, and has been growing in popularity in various pools around the country.
Redwoods Group, a insurance provider, pointed out that lifeguards can recognize swimmers’ abilities in the water with clear markers. Facilities can invest in colored bracelets or necklaces and issue them according to how well children can swim.
Know the risks
Lifeguards are trained to recognize the signs of drowning, but these are often subtle. The more crowded the pool, the more difficult it can be for lifeguards to spot the trouble.
Colored bracelets will allow lifeguards to quickly recognize whether a child is in an area of the pool that may be hazardous and can act accordingly. If you’re unsure of how to implement the program, here are some tips.
1. Assess the staff roster: Incorporating this procedure will require at least two poolside staff members. A lifeguard will need to keep an eye on swimmers while a swimming instructor figures out how well children just entering the facility can swim. If this is doable, implementing the new procedure can heighten your facility’s safety measures. Though this may keep swimmers from the fun of the pool for a few minutes, it’s a worthwhile activity that parents will appreciate.
2. Figure out the details: Decide the rules surrounding swimmers who don’t perform well in the water. Should they be within an arm’s reach of a guardian at all times? Should they be limited to the shallow end? Can they go on the water slide? What happens if parents don’t want their children to take the assessment?
3. Post signs: If you do implement this policy, make sure you don’t catch visitors off-guard by posting signage outside the pool. You can also post it on your pool’s website, informing guests prior to peak season. This way, they’ll be able to plan ahead, ensuring that their children get as much time in the pool as they’d like.
4. Make it fun: If you have a swimming instructor on staff, he or she has the skills to engage children and make the activity exciting.
If you’re looking to heighten safety at your facility but aren’t sure how, reach out to your local pool company for suggestions and advice.