Swimming Pool Safety Procedures During Lightning Storms

Summer is the most dangerous time of year for deaths and injuries due to lightning strikes. Outdoor swimming pools are especially vulnerable: though pools are typically built to be grounded, direct strikes happen and are a persistent danger. Kids safety is paramount, what do you do when a lightning storm threatens while you are in the pool? Here are summer safety tips for the water to keep in mind when the thunder and lightning come:

• As soon as you see lightning or hear thunder, get everyone out of the pool and away from pool structures (showers, changing rooms, filter/pump room, etc.). Indoors, in the largest nearby home or building, is the best place to wait out a storm.

• Use the standard flash-to-bang count to determine distance from the storm and if it’s getting closer. Count in one-second increments, each five-count equals one mile. In all cases where flash-to-bang is less than a 30-count, evacuate the pool area.

• Make certain the entire pool area is clear. Pools are connected underground to a much larger surface area via pipes, construction, and electrical wiring, all of which can conduct the charge from a lightning strike and endanger adjacent areas.

• If a suitable structure is not available, a hard-topped vehicle is the best alternative.

• Lack of rain, blue sky, and/or sunshine are not guarantees against lightning. Do not return to the pool until at least 30 minutes after the last lightning is sighted or thunder heard. Check the radio or online for weather service warnings to make certain all is clear.

The “30-30 Rule” is an effective rule of thumb for kids safety: evacuate the pool if the flash-to-bang count is under 30, do not return until 30 minutes have elapsed since the last thunder or lightning.

Summer is the time to be focused on water safety for kids, arm yourself with the knowledge needed to enjoy safe and fun swimming.

SWIM SCHOOL IN KATY 

Texas Swim Academy is the best swim school near me offering result-oriented swimming lessons in Katy that cater to all ages and abilities. Our well-trained and experienced swimming instructors provide a variety of programs for infants through adulthood. For the little ones, we offer swimming lessons for babies and swimming lessons for toddlers focused on survival swimming skills to build a strong water safety foundation and foster water confidence at a young age. Once your child knows how to swim, our swim lessons for children will help refine techniques and build endurance, as the consistent practice of their swimming skills is an imperative part of becoming a strong swimmer. 

Our adaptive aquatics program is designed for children of all ages and abilities to ensure every child, including children on the autism spectrum, can benefit from these fundamental skills and enjoy the water in a safe and comfortable environment. Adults seeking to improve their swimming prowess or learn how to swim for the first time can enroll in adult swim lessons tailored to their specific goals.

Our swim lessons near me are a convenient and accessible way for you and your family to learn how to swim in a comfortable environment. Our dedicated instructors are passionate about teaching and ensuring your progress in the water. Take a few minutes to view Our Swimmer Stories to learn more about what other families are saying about their experience with Texas Swim Academy. 

Contact us to learn more about our programs or stop by our state-of-the-art swimming facility in Katy to register today. Be sure to follow our Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube pages for important news, updates, and swimming safety tips, and read our blog to keep up-to-date with important information on water safety and proper swimming lessons.