What to know as central Ohio pools open up for the summer
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Memorial Day holiday is approaching and with summer following soon after, students in central Ohio will soon be looking for a way to cool off.
City pools are set to be in operation for the first time this weekend, and health experts are offering tips and reminders for parents to keep their kids safe during the warmer months. "You should always be watching your children while they're in the water," reminds Columbus Health Director, Dr. Mysheika Roberts.
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start to the summer season, and drowning is the number one cause of premature death for kids between the ages of 1 and 4. Dr. Roberts says parents shouldn't solely rely on lifeguards to keep their kids safe while at the pool.
"You should have one adult who knows how to swim, knows how to use their voice, be watching at all times. Put your cell phone down, pay attention to kids in the water," Dr. Roberts urges.
One way Dr. Roberts says parents can help keep their kids safe is with colorful swimwear. Dr. Roberts says the brighter the bathing suit, the more likely parents and lifeguards are to see a potential child struggling in the water. "We want bright colors, patterns will help. Try to avoid those pale or white colors that might blend in with the water, but those bright colors are definitely a bonus," encourages Dr. Roberts.
City pools at Dodge Park, Driving Park as well as Glenwood and Tuttle community centers will all open at 12 p.m. on Saturday. The city's newly-renovated splash pad at Bicentennial park will also be open for the first time this weekend. And with rising temperatures, health experts warn sunburn can happen in just a matter of minutes.
"If you can find waterproof sunscreen, that will be great. But even if it's waterproof, you need to reapply that sunscreen on a regular cadence, while they're out and about, in and out the pool," warns Dr. Roberts.
As summer camp dates approach, and with festival season already underway, Dr. Roberts urges the community to stay hydrated throughout the summer. "Water first for thirst," she reminds. She also says it's important adults stay prepared this time of year in case of an emergency.
"It's also important that adults know how to do CPR. That's important year round, but in the summer as people get overheated, it's important you know basic first aid and CPR as well," reminds Dr. Roberts.
While Columbus city pools will have special hours for Memorial Day weekend, they won't officially open for the season until June 8. For more information on pool hours and other summer activities offered by Columbus Rec and Parks, click here.
Pool schedules
Dodge, Driving, Glenwood and Tuttle:
- Saturday, May 25: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Sunday, May 26: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
- Monday, May 27: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
- Saturday, June 1: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Sunday, June 2: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
All Columbus pools open June 8. Hours are as follows:
- Monday thru Friday: 1 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Sunday: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Pools will be closed for Juneteenth (June 19) and Labor Day (Sept. 2)