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With record heat hitting the country many Americans often seek the refuge of a swimming pool.  Personal and public swimming pools can provide much needed relief, especially when 2016 has seen record breaking heat in some parts of the country such as in Piedra, Arizona where the thermostat topped 127 degrees.  People with disabilities were, for too long, excluded from participating in many recreational activities, including swimming. The revised 2010 Standards change that. For the first time, the 2010 Standards set minimum requirements for making swimming pools, wading pools, and spas (pools) accessible. Newly constructed and altered pools must meet these requirements. Public entities and public accommodations also have obligations with respect to existing pools. State and local governments must make recreational programs and services, including swimming pool programs, accessible to people with disabilities. Public accommodations must bring existing pools into compliance with the 2010 Standards to the extent that it is readily achievable to do so. 

The enjoyment and respite that pools provide, as well as the physical activity, can be trans formative in the summer months.  Spending time with family and friends while soaking in the cool water note only contributes to better physical health but emotional health as well.  With the ADA assuring equal access we can all get out and beat the heat!

Want to see a presentation of how the 2010 Standards changed pool design?  Visit Here

Questions about the ADA?  Call 1-800-949-4232 or email us at northeastada@cornell.edu or go to NortheastADA.org