Public pools are open. Here is how to have fun without breaking the rules

Summer is yet to wrap Philadelphia in scorching weather, but you can still enjoy splashing around at a local public pool.

Parks and Recreation is set to open 61 pools this season. Opening hours vary depending on the location, but one thing remains the same: rules.

Did you know there is a height requirement for children? Or that coolers are not permitted on the pool deck? Here is a list of things you need to know about going to a public pool in Philly:

No. According to Parks and Recreation spokesperson Maita Soukup, your swimming skills, or lack thereof, won’t keep you from gracing the water. However, if you want to learn or improve your underwater movements, Parks and Recreation offers free swimming lessons at every pool. To sign up, check your local pool deck for class schedules.

You can get by with not knowing how to swim, but you must meet the height, age, and appropriate attire requirements for admission.

Pool goers must be at least 8 years old and taller than 50 inches to swim by themselves. Otherwise, they’ll need to be accompanied by a person over the age of 18.

No matter the age, everyone in the water has to wear a bathing suit or swim trunks with a liner—no shirts over suits allowed, but rash guards get a pass. Wear your swimsuit before arriving because not all Parks and Recreation pools have a space to change.

Any clothing not designed for water is prohibited. So, you won’t be able to swim with cut-off or mesh shorts. The only exception is if you can’t wear a swimsuit due to religious reasons. If that’s the case, full-body danskin suits are allowed.

Soukup’s advice is to refrain from bringing too many items or large bags because you won’t have a place to store them. “Public pools do not have locker rooms, and Parks and Recreation is not responsible for people’s belongings,” she said.

While you can bring towels, and personal items, things such as goggles that cover the nose, vapes, cigarettes, food, chairs (pool or not), bicycles, and skateboards are prohibited. Alcohol, weapons, and any drugs also do not make the cut.

Once inside, playing ball while swimming, diving, running, or pushing other folks can get you a warning from the pool’s supervisor.

Although lifeguards are at the scene, parents and caretakers are still required to look after their children. And no, according to Parks and Recreations, older siblings do not count as caretakers and cannot bring small children to deep waters.

If you are planning on going to the pool with your little one, keep in mind, one adult can only supervise up to two kids younger than 8 years old. So, if you have a big group, make sure to bring as much adult supervision as possible.

Do you have a baby or a child that still wears a diaper? Regular diapers can disintegrate and clog the pool’s filter, but don’t worry your child can still enjoy the water on a swim diaper.

If the public pool is too far or maybe too busy, check out the sprinklers in your area.