We, the undersigned, request that the city of Lakewood reopen public swimming pools, for the purpose of lap swimming, with suitable regulation and supervision to ensure social distancing is maintained.  Examples of possible regulations are suggested below. 

Chlorination and UV light have both been shown to destroy the covid-19 virus, and there is no evidence that the covid-19 virus can be spread via pool water when pool operation, maintenance, and disinfection are all carried out within established regulations. The virus may also be destroyed by osmotic shock, that is, directly by contact with the pool water itself. Dilution by pool water, combined with filtration and disinfection, also adds to the safety of swimming.

Swimming is especially beneficial for people with some medical conditions including depression, asthma, cardiovascular disease and arthritis, and it is often recommended by health care professionals.

Lap swimming is one of the safest forms of exercise in terms of the transmission of the covid-19 virus provided that social distancing is maintained in and out of the pool. 

Swimmers use their training time for more than just physical fitness. The feel and the sound of the water when they swim back and forth allowing them to process their lives. It lets them be one with their thoughts, and thus being out of the water is detrimental to their mental health. Swimming to some is essential.

 Examples of possible regulations:

Ø  All swimmers could be required to wash thoroughly, using soap and water, before entering the pool.

Ø  Swimming lanes could be double width, with a vacant single width lane left between each double-width swimming lane.

Ø  The number of swimmers in a lane could be limited, for example only five swimmers allowed in any lane at a given time. 

Ø  Swimmers could enter and exit the pool in such a way as to ensure social distancing is maintained. 

Ø  Swimmers could be required to book swimming times.

Ø  All swimmers will be required to enter and exit the facility through separate doors to ensure proper social distancing is maintained.

Ø  Only swimmers, Coaches and the Pool staff would be allowed into the pool area.

Ø  To ensure maximum safety all swimming apparel, equipment, and accessories would be banned from usage in the pool.

These suggested rules are examples only, and not all may be deemed necessary, or practical, in order to ensure the safety of both swimmers and pool staff.  

The signers of this petition are humbly requesting the opening of pools to individuals and swim teams for lap swimming.

Your time and consideration are greatly appreciated in this step to safely reopen all pools to lap swimming.