Hagenbad tightens pool entry rules after child drowning incidents
Hagenbad GmbH is rolling out stricter entry rules at its indoor and outdoor pools from 1 April. The changes follow two drowning incidents involving young children at Westfalenbad over the past two years. New measures will require closer supervision and proof of swimming ability for unaccompanied minors. Under the updated regulations, children under 10 must now be accompanied by a supervisor aged 16 or older. Each adult can oversee no more than two children at a time. For those aged 10 to 13, entry without an adult will only be permitted if they hold a Bronze swimming certificate.
The move comes after two separate drowning accidents at Westfalenbad, both involving children under 7. In response, Hagenbad GmbH is also launching safety awareness days to teach families about pool hazards and emergency protocols. Westfalenbad will expand its swimming programme to support the new rules. Twelve water familiarisation courses for toddlers and 35 beginner-to-Silver level classes will be available. Random inspections will ensure compliance with the updated entry requirements.
The new rules aim to reduce risks after past incidents. Families will need to plan visits according to the age and swimming ability of their children. Hagenbad GmbH has confirmed that no public outdoor pools in Hagen are affected by these changes.
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