Parents,

In an effort to provide some clarity regarding swim practices and the COVID-19 virus to all our families and communicate effectively, we thought it would be helpful to share the answers to the questions that may be on your mind.

Is it safe to swim?

• YES. The CDC issued guidance that it is safe to swim as the virus cannot be spread via properly chlorinated and maintained pool water. Each pool we used meets or exceeds the health standards set by the CDC.
• Here is a LINK to the CDC direction on swimming and pool water.
• HERE is an article outlining how the virus cannot be spread in a properly maintained pool.

Is Summer League going to continue?

• YES.
• We will, of course, continue to closely monitor and listen to the CDC and local government agencies. If they or the league change their stance and direct us to alter our schedule or suspend practices then we will follow such guidance. As of March 13, 2020, the CDC has said properly maintained pools are safe and no guidance has been provided suggesting we consider closing.

What steps can I take to prevent illness?

• We feel like these have probably been covered a multitude of times on numerous emails that you are receiving. However, we are strongly recommending that families follow the CDC guidelines for Steps to Prevent Illness.
• In general, if you or your swimmer are sick or exhibiting symptoms of any illness, we ask that you fully recover before returning to practices.

How should I talk to my kids about the virus?

• Fortunately, children are remarkably immune to the virus. READ this Wall Street Journal article.
• We are very aware of how hard it is to talk to children about topics that are dominating the news. Realizing all families are different, we found this ARTICLE from Harvard Medical School (Harvard Health Publishing) helpful and thought we would pass it along.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us.