Pool safety means more fun in the sun

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joseph Raatz
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  

There’s no better way to beat the heat of a Louisiana summer than by taking a dip in the pool.

At Barksdale Air Force Base’s North Pool, located by the Barksdale Club, the water is cool, clear and open for business. But before you enjoy a refreshing swim, make sure to review the pool’s safety guidelines.

“Safety is an important issue for us,” said Kyle Rogers, pool manager. “Be diligent with your children. Make sure both you and they know their limits.”

Children under the age of 16 must pass a swim test to be allowed to go past the first rope or down the slides without wearing a life jacket. The test consists of swimming a lap the width of the pool, treading water for one minute and exiting the pool without using a ladder, and is offered periodically throughout the season.

Swimming lessons are also available for ages three and up. Lessons average $45 and are offered up to four times per day.

“Kids sometimes get eager and want to jump in the deep end, but maybe they aren’t ready for it yet. That’s where swim lessons come in,” Rogers said.

While at the pool, stay safe by following the rules posted around the pool area.

“A lot of it is common sense,” said Zach Fuhrman, head lifeguard and swim instructor. “No horseplay, no playing chicken, stay away from the front of the slides and listen to anything that a lifeguard tells you. Don’t run, dive or do flips or tricks while jumping into the pool. We also ask that guests keep food and beverages away from the edge of the pool, because we like to keep our facility clean.”

Kids 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian. Kids 11-13 may enter unaccompanied only after passing the swim test. Kids 14 and older are not required to be accompanied.

“You have a lot of options for pools in the Shreveport/Bossier area, but I think we’re one of the better ones,” Rogers said. “We have water slides, a great snack bar and a kiddie pool for your babies. We offer the full package here.”

The pool is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. Friday through Saturday and Noon to 6:45 p.m. on Sunday. The daily entry fee is $3 and is free for kids three and under. Monthly and season passes are available.

For more information, visit the Barksdale Life webpage at www.barksdaleservices.com.

To sign up for swim lessons, contact Outdoor Recreation at 318-456-3246.