New pool rules go into effect

Published Jan. 27, 2009
By Staff Sgt. Thomas J. Doscher
386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

SOUTHWEST ASIA -- New rules governing when the base pool can be used went into effect this week, closing the pool until March 1 and requiring pool patrons to sign in upon entry.

Once the pool re-opens, pool hours will be 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, and closed on Mondays.

The rules were implemented to allow more time for cleaning and maintenance, maintain accountability and make the pool use safer.

"In the past, the pool has been unmanned and open 24-seven," said Maj. Sean Marler, 386th Expeditionary Force Support Squadron commander. "Without someone physically located at the pool during operating hours, we are not able to account for who is using the pool, monitor and correct inappropriate or risky behavior or help protect our patrons from physical harm should an emergency arise."

The pool will be closed during the winter months, Dec. 1 through Feb. 28, said Tech. Sgt. Ernest Peralta, 386th EFSS fitness and sport center NCOIC, but the patio area will remain open at all times for wireless internet users and unit functions.

Sergeant Peralta said Rock Airmen shouldn't see a very big change.

"Although the pool is heated, this time frame has little utilization," he said. "And cold outside temperatures and high winds create a safety concern."

The 386th EFSS is also looking into hiring lifeguards for the warmer months, but contracting lifeguards to watch the pool 24 hours a day isn't feasible.

"Because it is not feasible to hire lifeguards for 24-seven pool coverage, we had to seriously evaluate our swimming pool utilization to date to determine the best times to use the lifeguards," Major Marler said.

Pool rules