Reaching Maximum Capacity at the Swimming Pools

The number one priority at the City of Fredericksburg swimming pools is the safety of the visitors. While we hate denying entry to anyone, at times we must for the well-being of all the visitors.

At this time the pools are short about 6 to 8 lifeguards to fully staff the pools during the summer. The pools are staffed by American Red Cross certified lifeguards. We follow the standard ratio of 1 lifeguard for every 25 pool users and give them a short break after an hour in the stand to avoid fatigue.

If someone is on the pool deck but obviously not swimming, they are not counted as a pool user. The pools operate on a first come, first serve basis, during open hours. There are several groups that use the pools regularly. All groups pay the same daily rate, including chaperones, and are required to follow the same rules as anyone else that enters the pools.  One group brings volunteer lifeguards that are American Red Cross certified to assist during their time at the pools. Some groups take breaks from swimming and gather everyone at the back of the facility for 30 minutes to 1 hour. During this time period the pools appear to be empty, however after the break all of their group will be back in the pools until they leave the facility for the day. Staff has been asked by visitors to let them in during these breaks. When the pool reaches the maximum number of pool users, staff does not let any more pool users in until someone has left the facility. If pool users are out of the pool taking a break on the deck they are still part of the pool user count as they may reenter the pool at any time. If someone leaves the pool facility and returns later that same day to reenter, we do not charge them again but they can only enter if the pool is not at capacity.

The Parks and Recreation Department is still hiring certified American Red Cross lifeguards. If at least 3 people are interested, another certification class can be scheduled.

Staff is doing the best they can to keep Park Pool open during its regular hours but to do this Town Pool does have to close at times. For updates on closures please follow the City of Fredericksburg's Facebook page.  The link is at the bottom of this page.

Thank you.