City outdoor pools ready to open, safety a main priority

The unofficial start of summer is only a few days away and El Paso is already feeling the heat.

To stay cool this summer, families will likely find the nearest swimming pool.

Whether it’s a city pool or a private pool, safety should always be the main priority.

This year, so far, The Texas Department of family and protective services has reported 11 drownings in the state . None were reported in El Paso County.

Last year, 82 drownings were reported in the state of Texas.

That was an increase from 2012, when 74 drownings happened in the state.

The city’s Aquatics Department encourages families to know all about pool safety before jumping in this summer.

“We are offering ‘Learn to Swim’ classes for all ages and different skill levels, to include adults. We do provide water safety briefing to local organizations and school districts,” said Wright Stanton, Aquatics Director for the city of El Paso.

Stanton added the city is also looking for more lifeguards to have complete staff this summer.

“We need about 35 more lifeguards,” said Stanton.

For every 50 swimmers there should be a lifeguard on duty he said.

There are requirements to be a lifeguard, that include a physical test.

All nine outdoor pools are up and running and expected to open this Memorial Day Weekend.