Reply #34: In a pool there shouldn't be flotation devices

[Lady President]

As a former lifeguard, flotation devices often make pools more dangerous.

First, floaties leak which results in that child be in more danger because they become heavier.

Second, they are distracting for lifeguards.

Third, both the child and the parent become overly confident that the child is safe. Parents don't watch their children as vigilantly if they assume that the child is safe. (I don't think this is bad parenting, but realistic-- you are less nervous with a child playing in your own fenced backyard, then a public park.) Similarly, because the child won't feel the need to be able to touch the ground, they will drift into deeper waters which makes for a harder rescue.

Fourth, the pool becomes more dangerous for other swimmers. Coupled with the distracted lifeguard, it's harder to see the bottom of the pool. This is hard enough in a crowded pool, but with several children with floaties playing together, it becomes impossible to see the one that is at the bottom underneath them.

IMO, part of the problem is the fact that lifeguards are paid minimum wage and are teenagers. I still think that being a lifeguard was the best job I've ever had, but there is a lot of responsibility to it. These huge water parks could easily afford to hire some people in their 30s+ with tons of experience, especially for more dangerous portions of the park.

*** Note: Put lifejackets on adults, kids, and pets while boating.