November 2007

Dear Friends-

I hope you and yours are enjoying the wonderful fall season!  We at the YMCA are looking forward to your particpation in our programs and hope you reap the many benefits of health and fitness that you will gain form participating in them.

In an effort to provide our participants the safest aquatic environment we have implemented a number of new risk management practices that you should be aware of.

Please be aware that our lifeguards have been instructed to clear the pool of ALL swimmers when the pool is in need of set up or tear down of a program.  Your cooperation is expected.  Please respect the lifeguard’s direction to leave the water so that they may accomplish tasks such as the putting in and taking out of lane lines.  No one will be allowed to remain in the water or enter the pool while such a task is being completed. The guard will blow the whistle to alert participants of the transition period.  Everyone must exit the pool.  You may sit on the benches on the side of the deck if you plan to re-enter the water after preparations are completed.  The guard will then blow the whistle to alert participants that the pool is again ready for use.  It is our intention to transition efficiently but is significantly dependant on your cooperation. 

We will also be requiring our pool patrons to properly shower before entering the pool as per local and state health department regulations.  Please do not be offended if you are asked to return to the locker room to shower.  If all patrons make showering a habit, our pool water will be healthier for all.

Also, in order to swim in the pools, a child who is not potty trained will be required to wear a swim diaper covered by a plastic pant and swim suit OR families may use the all in one reusable swim diaper covered by a swim suit.  Children not wearing the appropriate swim attire will not be permitted to swim.  We are anxiously awaiting a shipment of the reusable swim diapers from our distributor to sell at the Courtesy Counter in the near future.   Please look for signs announcing their availability.  You can also find these diapers at some local stores or on-line.

Thank you for your cooperation as we work to implement new expectations.  I welcome any comments, questions or concerns. 

Jennie Coppit

Sr. Director of Aquatics

Ext. 277

jcoppit@frederickymca.org