City pools make a splash on time
To News Editors
No Embargo
6 September 2007
City pools make a splash on time
On 1 September 2007, the City of Joburg was able to open 44 of the 56 swimming pools within its jurisdiction.
A concerted effort by the City’s Department of Community Development ensured that most residents had access to pools in their respective areas. The opening of swimming pools marks the beginning of the summer swimming season from September 2007 to March 2008.
The 12 pools that did not open are undergoing repairs and maintenance. These are Vrededorp, Newville, Verity Park, Kensington B, Florida Lake, Florida North, Alexandria, Crown Gardens, Yeoville and Murray Park. This ranges from electrical repairs, replacement of pipes, filtration systems to structural.
Except for Murray Park that is closed due to structural damage and Florida North that is scheduled to open during the first week of November, all pools undergoing repairs should open from mid September onwards.
One hundred and thirty nine qualified seasonal workers have also been employed to further capacitate the existing staff compliment.
As it gets hotter and the festive season approaches pools are likely to experience some overcrowding and lifeguards will be kept busy. We cannot overemphasize the need for safety at all times be it at a private or public swimming pool.
We plead with parents to constantly supervise children because even if they can swim, they still need to be watched. Some safety tips:
Install a fence or safety net and constantly check that it is secured
Never leave children unattended near water
Look before you leap or dive into water
Memorise the Johannesburg Emergency Services number 10177 or 011 375 5911
Ends
“Joburg, a City where community development, personal growth and social mobility are enhanced so that challenges of poverty, vulnerability, inequality and social exclusion are fundamentally addressed”.
Issued on behalf of Councillor Nandi Mayathula-Khoza Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development
(FMI 011 407 6719)
By
Virgil James
Spokesperson
City of Joburg
011 407 7226
082 467 9415
