Go Swim

Local Swimming

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Safeguard the Pool Area

• Isolate the pool with a self-locking, self-closing fence with vertical bars.
  • Fences should be at least 4 feet tall.
  • Openings in the fence should be no more than 4 inches wide.
• Install safety covers and alarms on doors leading to the pool area.
• Don't keep furniture near the fence that would enable a child to climb over the fence.
• Remove covers completely before using the pool and replace them immediately after use.
• Never leave toys in the pool area or in the pool. Toys can attract young children into the pool.

Provide effective supervision

• Keep your eyes on children in the pool and pool area at all times.
• Never leave a child alone when they are in or near a pool.
• During social gatherings, designate an adult to supervise the pool area. Never assume that someone else is watching a child.
• If a child is missing, look in the water first.
• Become certified in CPR so you can provide care for someone if an emergency occurs.

Prepare for an Emergency

• Learn to swim. Several places throughout the County offer swimming lessons. Check in the Directory for locations and contact information.
• Anyone over 14 years old should learn CPR so they can provide care for someone if an emergency occurs.
• Install a phone by the pool or keep a cordless phone nearby so you can call 9-1-1 during an emergency.
• Keep rescue equipment, such as a pole, rope and personal flotation device, near the pool.
• Teach everyone how to use the safety equipment.

Download this safety information in PDF format

Recreational water illnesses (RWIs) are illnesses you can get from swallowing, breathing or coming into contact with contaminated water in swimming pools, water parks, hot tubs, lakes, rivers or oceans. The most commonly reported RWI is diarrhea caused by germs like "Crypto," Giardia, Shigella, and E. coli O157:H7. Although these germs are eventually killed by chlorine, it doesn't work right away. Some germs, like "Crypto," can live in pools for days. Do your part to help prevent the spread of disease in local lakes and pools. Follow these steps for a healthy swimming experience:

• Do not swim when you have diarrhea. Germs can be spread in the water and make other people sick.
• Do not swallow pool water or get pool water in your mouth.
• Shower before swimming and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.
• Take children on bathroom breaks or change their diapers often.
• Change diapers in a bathroom or in a diaper-changing area and not at poolside.
• Wash your child thoroughly (especially their bottom) with soap and water before swimming.
• Notify the lifeguard immediately if you see fecal matter in the water.