INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY AND PROCEDURE
The Corpus Christi Parks & Recreation Department requires all persons using city pools to abide by this policy and procedure to ensure staff and patron safety in the event of an inclement weather event. In the event of an inclement weather event at our facilities, staff will be required to enforce and follow these set procedures. Inclement weather may include thunder, lightning, hard rain, or any unforeseen change in pattern that obstructs the vision of the pool or the effectiveness of the lifeguard scan pattern.
THUNDER AND/OR LIGHTNING EVENT
- Determine the distance of lightning from a location by using the "flash-to-bang rule.” Begin counting at the sight of the lightning flash. Stop counting at the sound of related thunder. Divide the count by five (5) to determine the proximity in miles of the lightning strike (5 seconds = 1 mile; 50 seconds = 10 miles, etc.). Determine the distance of lightning from a location by using the "flash-to-bang rule” Begin counting at the sight of the lightning flash. Stop counting at the sound of related thunder. Divide the count by five (5) to determine the proximity in miles of the lightning strike (5 seconds = 1 mile; 50 seconds = 10 miles, etc.)
- If lightning is spotted or thunder is heard the “flash-to-bang rule” will be utilized and if the lighting is within 15 miles the pool must close for 30 minutes. Reoccurring lightning and thunder will restart the time upon every instance. The entire pool deck must be cleared of patrons and staff.
- All patrons must exit the water.
- All patrons must prepare to leave and find shelter (identify appropriate shelter). No place outside is safe if lightning is in the vicinity. Partially enclosed vending areas and picnic shelters are not safe. If a substantial building is not available, fully-enclosed motor vehicles provide good shelter as long as occupants do not touch the metal framework during the thunderstorm. If no protection from lightning is available, direct patrons to stay away from the tallest objects (lifeguard stands, light poles, flag poles), metal objects (fences or bleachers), standing pools of water, and open areas.
- Lifeguards must turn off all water features.
- Lifeguards must stay at stations until water and deck are cleared. Lifeguards must close and secure umbrellas.
- Staff members are required to stay in approved areas and protect themselves.
- If necessary, patrons have access to stay in staff enclosed areas such as storage rooms or offices if it will provide a safer place for them. Restrooms, locker rooms, and showers are not considered safe during a lightning flash.
WATER AND AIR TEMPERATURES
- The pool will close if the water temperature of the pool is below 72 degrees Fahrenheit and/or the air temperature outside is below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Suggested Swimming Pool Water Temperatures:
- Recreational: 81 degrees
- Competitive: 77-82 degrees
- Fitness: 78 degrees
- Water Therapy: 86 degrees
- Aquatic Instruction: 83-86 degrees
RESOURCES
- http://texasswimacademy.com/swimming-pool-safety-procedures-during-lightning-storms/
- https://www.usla.org/page/lightning
- https://www.weather.gov/safety/lightning
- https://www.weather.gov/media/owlie/OSHA_FS-3863_Lightning_Safety_05-2016.pdf
- https://www.coldwatersafety.org/what-is-cold-water
- https://www.livestrong.com/article/486936-the-effect-of-water-temperature-on-swimmers/
