For people with visual impairments, ask the lifeguard staff to help you with the safety and accessibility checklist and/or bring someone with you.
- NEVER swim alone. No matter how great your swimming skills are, NEVER swim alone.
- ONLY swim when there is a lifeguard present. There should be a lifeguard team on duty at all times. A single lifeguard is not enough. To ensure that the pool is being properly guarded, a minimum of two lifeguards is recommended.
- NEVER swim during inclement weather. Inclement weather includes thunder, lightning, severe weather of any kind. Please click on this link for the Red Cross Policy regarding swimming and inclement weather. This applies to indoor and outdoor pools.
- CHECK the clarity of the water. Is it clear? Can you see the bottom?
- CHECK for clear markings of the water depth and for signs indicating whether diving is allowed.
- For people who are visually impaired, request a guided tour of the aquatic environment, on deck and in the water to learn the landscape and waterscape of the area.
- CHECK the temperature of the water. Below are temperature recommendations from the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA).
- CHECK the environment of the deck. Is it clear of equipment? Is the deck clean and non-slippery?
- CHECK the rescue equipment. Are there rescue buoys and rings visible? Is there a long hook? Are these items in good condition?
