Cederberg shares Pool Guidelines

The Malta Municipal Pool has been under repairs last week, and the City is hoping to open up the pool on Wednesday, July 1. Due to the COVID-19 virus, pools around the state have been adjusting to social distancing measures.

Kelly Cederberg, the Malta Municipal Pool Manager is well-versed in the stage 2 guidelines set in place by CDC, so we drafted a page of pool guidelines that have been checked out and approved by the County Clerk and the Health Board.

"We are prepared," Cederberg said. "We have the tools to move forward."

Cederberg also said that she went to The American Red-Cross in Billings for Lifeguard training. The City plans to hire seven lifeguards this summer.

"I'm very confident that we will be able to hire seven lifeguards and get them trained within the month of June," Cederberg said. "I put a bug in my P.E. students ears that we would be looking for lifeguards, so I am hoping those girls will pull through."

In order to follow social distancing protocols, swimmers, lifeguards and anyone at the City Pool will be required to stand 6-feet apart when on cement, grass, checking into the pool, and lining up at the diving board.

The pool's capacity will be set to 75 percent capacity. Malta's pool has a maximum capacity of 69 swimmers, so at the most, the pool will allow 52.

This year, the pool will have higher chlorine levels than in past years.

Workers and patrons will be encouraged to wash their hands regularly, and have sanitizer available. Every person must shower prior to entering the pool.

Surfaces and areas including locker rooms, doorknobs, drinking fountains, railings, benches, light switches, bathroom showers, sinks, faucets, toilets and kickboards are to be disinfected every 20 minutes.

Prior to their shift, lifeguards will undergo a health check, which will include checking their temperature and answering several health-related questions.

Lifeguards will be directed to disinfect their chair every rotation and every 20 minutes with a bleach combo. Each guard will also have their own buoy, fanny pack, and whistle; all of which will be disinfected.

There will be increased air circulation through the locker room areas by opening all doors and windows. There will be a plexiglass barrier between the cashier and the patrons.

The pool prohibits the use of inflatable toys.

There will also be regular staff meetings on cleaning protocols.

The pool will be open to children and adults. There will be swimming lessons for children ages three and older. The Malta Swim Team will also hold practices at the Municipal Pool. For more information about swimming lessons contact the Malta City Clerk at 654-1251.