Dangerous Noodles??!!

Former Member
Former Member
Recently, my home YMCA has decided to band the use of Noodles during family/open swim times. They cite the floating foam (which can be used as a reaching assist, be used as an instructional aid, fun "thingy", etc. if used properly) as a "safety hazard". Not only is the ban news to me, so is the "hazard" label. Our pool always has at least 2 lifeguards (for a 6 lane, 25 yd pool) during the open swim times and requires that parents/guardians remain in the immediate area - if not in the pool - with their children. I think my aquatics department has been hijacked by two non-swimmers who are too busy making up crimes to focus on real issues such as inceased times/lanes for competitive swimmers, monitoring pool temps & chemicals, etc. My questions are: How many other facilities have banned such fun floating objects? What types/kinds of accidents have you experienced with the Noodle? Do you think they have a basis for their decision? ps. The facility stocks and uses the banned items during swim lessons and exercise classes.
Parents
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    For clarification purposes, there were no kids wacking each other - my kids are 5, 6, & 7 (yes) - they were sharing the noodles & balls with the other kids, I am a coach, lifeguard, instructor, etc. and I was in the pool right next to the open swim area (swimming laps). I can see below, hear above, see above and was paying attention to my kids & all the other participants in the pool (occupational hazard that never goes away). By the way, my kids can swim all 4 competitive strokes and I can get to any spot in the pool
Reply
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    For clarification purposes, there were no kids wacking each other - my kids are 5, 6, & 7 (yes) - they were sharing the noodles & balls with the other kids, I am a coach, lifeguard, instructor, etc. and I was in the pool right next to the open swim area (swimming laps). I can see below, hear above, see above and was paying attention to my kids & all the other participants in the pool (occupational hazard that never goes away). By the way, my kids can swim all 4 competitive strokes and I can get to any spot in the pool
Children
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