Pools in Illinois can reopen in Phase 4. Here are the COVID-19 safety requirements.
Pools, splashpads, water parks and beaches can reopen at half capacity and with other COVID-19 precautions under Phase 4 of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Restore Illinois reopening plan, public health officials announced Friday.
“There is currently no evidence that COVID-19 can spread to people through the water in pools and water playgrounds,” Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said. “However, the virus can still spread between people while in the pool, playing at a water park, or in a spa. Make sure to keep your distance from other people, especially if waiting in line or sitting around the pool.”
Some pools have already decided to remain closed for the season, including the Edwardsville Glen Carbon Community Pool, the Mascoutah Swimming Pool, the New Baden Legion Memorial Swimming Pool and the Sparta Municipal Swimming Pool.
Others said they would decide for state guidance to make a final decision.
Pools and other places to have fun in the water must have a plan for maintaining social distancing in lines, such as putting up signs, hiring attendants or placing markings. They must also plan for sanitizing rafts, tubes and lounge chairs between each use.
Groups of no more than 50 people should gather, and employees and customers should wear face coverings when not swimming. Children younger than 2 years old and people with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a mask do not have to do so.
Employees and customers should have their temperature checked when arriving along with screenings for COVID-19 symptoms.
Illinois moved into Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan Friday.
