Public Pools Set Pandemic Guidelines For Guests As They Reopen

Public pools and water parks are preparing for the large crowds they are expecting to see when summer begins. Westwood Family Aquatic Center in Norman is one of those who plan to open in the next couple weeks. They’ve been working on ways to try and make their pools as safe as possible for everyone.

“We’re going to have friendly reminders for patrons to continuously try to maintain six feet,” Westwood Family Aquatic Center Recreation Supervisor Josh Holman said. “We understand family dynamic groups. Families will be able to sit with each other.”

Initially, Holman said, they will reduce their capacity by 50 percent. The aquatic center will ask guests to leave at 3 p.m. each day as they sanitize and deep clean the area for an hour before opening back up.

“It’s kind of kept us on our toes as far as we’re needing to be ready at any moment’s notice,” Holman said.

The CDC said as long as chlorine levels stay at appropriate levels, the virus won’t live in the water. However, the agency still recommends everyone to keep their distance when swimming. 

The staff at Westwood will do daily temperature checks and wear a mask when they’re on the lifeguard stand and at the front desk.

“It’s going to require a lot of patients from both our staff and guests,” Holman said. “But I think we’re going to be able to work really well together and make this summer as best as we can.”