As the weather heats up, many Americans are eager to go outside after spending the past couple of months on lockdown. While crowded swimming pools with parents sunbathing on lounge chairs while their kids play in the water is a summer tradition for many, the experience will be a bit different this summer because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided guidelines so that when pools reopen, they can reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19. The agency recommends that people wear masks when they go to the pool, but said you shouldn't wear one while swimming.
The CDC advised pools to rearrange deck furniture so that people can stay at least six feet apart from each other. They suggested that pool-goers refrain from sharing items like towels and pool noodles.
While in the pool, swimmers will be expected to follow social distancing guidelines and stay at least six feet from other people in the water.
The CDC said that guidelines should not be enforced by lifeguards because they need to be focused on keeping people in the pool safe.
The agency said that while there is no evidence that the coronavirus can be spread by pool water, the biggest risks come when people congregate outside of the water.
Photo: Getty Images