Rules of Swimming Pools

While establishments that have on-site swimming pools usually have their own specifics guideline regarding pool usage, they all hold safety as a guiding principal. Once determined by common sense, the posting of prominent safety rules at hotels, athletic clubs and public pools is today more likely related to the potential issues of liability if someone using the facilities gets injured. Pool owners insist upon the strict adherence to their pool policies and may even have guests or members sign indemnity forms before using their pools.

  1. Supervision

    • Although age restrictions vary with each establishment, children (often 12 or younger) must be accompanied and supervised by an adult. Additionally, children who are not toilet trained must wear approved "swim diapers" while in and around the pool area.

    Rough Play

    • Rough housing, running, climbing, cannonballing, flipping, dunking, pushing, pulling and other such activities that the establishment may deem dangerous behavior are prohibited. Diving is only permitted at some establishments and in water depths of 9 feet or deeper. The use of non-approved flotation devices also may be restricted.

    Lifeguards

    • Lifeguards are to be obeyed at all times. Patrons are also asked not to distract lifeguards from their duties. Pools often post warnings when guards are not on duty, advising that swimming comes at patrons' own risk.

    Attire

    • Proper swim attire is required. In addition to discouraging "too little," many establishments, while honoring the religious beliefs of their patrons, may insist that the patron outfits not be so modest as to restrict their in-water movements.

    Alcohol

    • Whereas many establishments have poolside bars and even in-water bars, all discourage dangerously drunken behavior and may ask patrons to leave the pool area if they become intoxicated.

    Pets

    • With the exception of guide animals, pets are prohibited from pool areas.