Sterling Estates In Sterling Heights, MI..Swimming Safety

by Kat
(sterling heights, mi)

I was told to remove my life vest from my 4 year old and 2 year old grandchild while they were in the public pool because they said it could clog up their filter system.

Neither one can swim and the pool is 3 to 5 feet deep.

Any suggestions

Thanks for your question Kat

If you've gone through this site, especially this link about swimming safety...

Swimming Safety..Child Water Safety..Pool Rules..Tips

you know I'm a big proponent of safety around swimming pools.

The lifeguards at the Y know I'm the "letter of the law" guy when it comes to this. Each guard is personally trained by me about the importance of safety and are given Level 1, 2, or 3 training, depending on their proficiency. They are also given a 54 question test (prepared by me) that they must pass in order to guard and be on the deck.

That being said, I would ask what kind of material are the life jackets made out of? If they are a regulation Type 2 or 3 Coast Guard certified PDF (personal safety device) made from nylon and foam, or a vinyl coated closed-cell foam jacket, (the cool-looking shiny ones that you might see on a water skier) and in good repair without any tears or rips, there is absolutely positively no way on this Earth this life jacket can clog any filter.

The only material that I'm aware of that will clog swimming pool filters is cotton, i.e. T-shirts, shorts, underwear, etc...If the jackets are made of cotton, then the person saying you can't swim may have a point.

If you wear regulation swimwear made from nylon, Lycra, or spandex and your grand-children's life jackets are made from the same or similar material, and the public pool still won't allow you to swim, I'd say report whomever to the manager, city, or state. If it's a public pool then the Department of Health would be the office to reach.

Hope this helps, good luck, and have a great and safe Summer

Robert