As part of our advocacy, #OneAccesibility, we will share information about differently able and profile one location with accessible trails. Look out every week for this enlightening post.
When was the last time you went swimming and what was your experience like? Can you remember the environment or poolside experience? For many of us, it may have been a while given the current situation, but I do vividly remember my prior experiences and I love getting into the water. I remember the ease of walking through the gates, down the sidewalk, dropping my items on a chaise lounge or in the cabana, and immediately jumping into the pool with my family and friends. We would make a mixture of Nigerian and American dishes and pack the food in the cooler with some soft drinks the go to a nearby pool. In between sharing laughters, playing volleyball in the water, and eating - I remember taking moments to look at the environment and others around.
Swimming Pool (n.)
An artificial area of water for swimming.
Poolside (n.)
The area surrounding the swimming pool.
What Makes a Poolside Accessible
Some of us are able to access these spaces with no difficulty, but others may not be able to. Here are some key factors to think about when we talk about accessibility at the poolside:
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There are available, unobstructed routes connected one area of the poolside to another.
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There are ramps available with handrails if stairs are present.
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Individuals of all abilities and developmental stages are able to occupy the same space.
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There are limited to no deterrents such as narrow paths making accessibility difficult.
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There should be two accessible means of entry, with at least one being a pool lift or sloped entry.
How to Create Accessibility When There is None
While having a pool that is accessible to all may be difficult when construction has already been completed, there are some implementations that can be done to reduce the difficulty for people with disabilities.
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Building a fixed pool lift that can be attached to the pool or detachable.
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Having instructional signs around the poolside.
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Carving out a section for aid or personal assistance (apart from the lifeguard on duty).
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Ensuring there are furniture conducive to all possible visitors.
Nigeria enacted the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018 that highlights general requirements on public property, but there are currently no specifications for swimming pools and poolside areas. The United States Department of Justice, however, updated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to set minimum requirements for making swimming pools, wading pools, and spas (pools) accessible.
A Look at Accessible Pools Around the World
When planning your next trip, you can visit any of the accessible-friendly pools below!
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Collaroy Rockpool, Australia
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Leduc Aquatic Centre, Canada
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The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real, Dominican Republic
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Radisson Blu Resort, Fiji
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Kent State University Natatorium, United States
Have any locations you would like add to the list? What other things make a poolside accessible and/or inclusive? Share below!
Chinonso Onukwugha
If you have a question, suggestion or contribution, feel free to comment below. You can read last week’s roundup here and check the list of our other articles under “Accessibility Uncovered”.
etc. In the Local Guide I saw that I am at level 6, what can I use going up levels in the future? I would love to understand the Local Guide! Thanks in advance