I am a returning fifth-year lifeguard at a city of Spokane water park. With pool openings just around the corner, I would like to discuss something dear to myself and colleagues. Pools are a great place to have fun, but they are equally dangerous. I want to stress that lifeguards cannot be guaranteed to catch every incident. Please do not think that because lifeguards are attending the pool, your child is guaranteed to come home. You play an equally active role keeping your child safe as we do.

If your child is not a strong swimmer, actively watch your child in the pool. Sit on the side or, better yet, get in. Keep in mind children want to copy their older siblings, and older siblings want to play in deeper water. If you have an infant, do not talk with other parents. I have rescued babies in just inches of water because the parent sitting next to them was distracted.

Lifeguards work long hours and it is exhausting and stressful. We want everyone to go home safe at the end of the day, and we thank the parents who value their child’s safety.

Grace E. Hanberg

Cheney