Summer is just around the corner! Which means community members will soon get a chance to cool down at the Laramie Community Recreation Center Outdoor Pools. The Outdoor Leisure Pool, Washington Park Wading Pool, and the Undine Splash Pad will officially be open on June 8^th for the season (pending good weather of course!). A set schedule of activities can be found online at cityoflaramie.org/pools.

With so many opportunities for water recreation in Laramie, the Laramie Recreation Center wants to ensure you are prepared to enjoy the water safely. Recreation Center Aquatic Supervisor, Wendy Clubb provides several water safety tips to practice this summer when spending time in and around the water:

• Learn how to swim! If you or your children do not know how to swim, take swimming lessons. Know your own ability and be realistic about your child’s ability to swim. The Rec Center offers swimming lessons for all skill levels.
• Learn CPR and always use the buddy system. Check out classes offered by the American Red Cross or other local entities.
• Be vigilant around water and avoid distractions.
• Stay hydrated and continuously apply sunscreen. It is recommended to reapply every two hours or after every swim session.
• Know when you or your children are getting tired and take a break.
• Wear US Coast Guard approved lifejackets in and around open water (lakes, streams, rivers, etc.) and learn the appropriate applications for using USCG approved lifejackets versus USCG approved Puddle Jumpers (although highly popular, they are recommended by industry experts to wear around the water and not actually in the water).

“While we really enjoy seeing people having fun and enjoying their time with us, safety is our number one priority. Even when there is a lifeguard on duty parents need to be diligent when watching their children. The best way to ensure water safety for children is for an adult supervisor to be in the water interacting with them.” Says Wendy. 

To ensure maximum safety, the Recreation Center is also looking to add lifeguards to their team. Being around water is dangerous and lifeguards provide essential services to ensure everyone has the best experience when enjoying the aquatic facilities. The Rec Center provides initial training (you do not need to be certified before applying), continuous training during employment, and opportunities to learn to teach swimming lessons. Check out lifeguarding opportunities by clicking the “join our team” button at cityoflaramie.org.