How Will Coronavirus Protocols Work At Wayne Swimming Facilities?

WAYNE, NJ — With both James W. Roe Memorial Pool and Captain Michael Kilroy Memorial Park open daily beginning this week, swimming in Wayne Township has started for the summer, but it will look different this year.

The coronavirus pandemic has delayed the opening of public and private swimming pools across the state, and now as these facilities begin to reopen, it will be with a new set of rules and regulations.

Wayne Township has posted the guidelines on their website, and they include everything from pool access to cleaning and disinfecting to what to do if lightning strikes during pool hours.

(Yes, the coronavirus has even shifted weather policies.)

Below are some highlights of the new regulations:

Pool entry will be done one group at a time. Guests will form a single file line, adhering to socially distanced floor markings.

The pool is members only until further notice, meaning guests will not be granted entry.

Guests must maintain six-feet of distance from each other on the pool deck, beach and in the water.

Face masks are required indoors, but should not be worn in the water.

Locker areas are closed until further notice.

Restrooms are available, with one person allowed in at a time. It is asked that pool-goers wear "foot coverings" while in the restrooms.

Restrooms will be temporarily closed throughout the day — every two hours — for cleaning, and staffers will also clean "common touch points" frequently.

If lightning strikes, patrons will be asked to clear the pool and wait in their cars until it is safe to enter again. For those without a car, they will be permitted to wait in the entrance area, but must wear a face mask.

According to the regulations, all pool staff members will be trained on the New Jersey Department of Health guidelines, and also receive ongoing COVID-19 awareness training.

Staff will be temperature check prior to working each shift, but the regulations make no mention of checking the temperature of patrons.

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Both the pool and Tom's Lake will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and 12 to 8 p.m. on weekdays.

Seasonal memberships are available for purchase online, in person or by mail-in registration.

According to the regulations, "The Township reserves the right to close facilities based on attendance and social distancing."

This article originally appeared on the Wayne Patch

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