Memorial Day weekend is the “unofficial” beginning of summer and signals the opening of pools around the country. However, this year, COVID-19 has definitely disrupted these plans. It’s a tough decision for property managers, who have to decipher regulations issues by the state, county, and in some instances, the city, which is not an easy task. You can enjoy all of the outdoor amenities your community has to offer, but you’ll need to abide by the rules issued by your apartment management and use common sense.
- COVID-19 can’t be transmitted through water. This has been verified by the CDC. Chlorine and other chemicals used in the pool will kill COVID, so you’re safe while you’re in the pool. It’s what happens once you get out of the water, where you need to take precautions.
- Maintain social distancing. Pool deck furniture such as chaise lounges, tables and chairs need to be six feet apart. This furniture, along with other common surfaces, like railings, should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Don’t share goggles, water toys, floaties, etc., unless it’s within your immediate family.
- Wear a mask. Obviously, you can’t wear a mask in the water, but you can when you are socializing with people around the pool. It’s OK if you’re sunbathing and want to remove it, but once you start engaging with other pool-goers, you should put your mask back on.
- Cut out the horseplay. Sure, it’s fun to splash, do cannonballs, upend your buddy’s float, but use common sense. Not only does rough-housing annoy other swimmers, but it doesn’t help in the fight against spreading COVID. How? When somebody gets water in their nose or mouth, the first thing they do is get out of the pool and cough, blow their nose and wipe their eyes. Even with the benefit of chlorine, an asymptomatic person could unknowingly spread the virus as droplets can travel great distances and also linger for a long time on hard surfaces.
- Clean up your trash. Yes, there is always that person who leaves their trash laying around their chair. Trash blowing around the pool not only clutters the pool area but can increase the person to person spread of COVID-19.
- Wash your hands frequently. Even though you’re going to be in water, you still need to wash your hands before and after visiting the pool area. Carry your own hand sanitizer with you. On that note, the good news is that more local companies are making their own brands of “artisan” hand sanitizer, so the dearth is slowly being replenished. This advice is especially important if you use the restroom or shower in the pool area.
COVID-19 has put a crimp in everybody’s lifestyle but it is what it is. Vision Communities is closely following the guidelines set by the CDC and the Ohio Department of Health. Our goal is to keep all residents safe while allowing them to enjoy the pool during the hot summer months. Be a good community citizen and do your part by keeping yourself and your fellow residents safe.
At Vision Communities, we encourage our residents to be smart this summer but enjoy the experience of living in one of our apartment communities. We take pride in the communities that we build and want our residents to feel the same way. We’ll take care of the maintenance of the facilities and your apartment, but the cleaning and assembly are up to you! With apartment communities near Clintonville, Downtown Columbus, and Westerville, Vision Communities has the floor plan and amenities that you are looking for. To learn more, browse our Central Ohio communities and find the right floor plan for you and your family.