Two young men were caught by a New York Post photographer taking a swim in a public pool in Queens ahead of the official opening on June 27th. The two men were seen in tank tops and shorts in the knee-deep water without a lifeguard present. Despite city officials’ warnings, they were enjoying a dip in the pool.
According to a Department of Parks and Recreation spokesperson, New Yorkers are encouraged to only swim in the city’s pools during operating hours when lifeguards are present. The gates at Astoria Park Pool were breached by the two individuals, and it was not clear how they gained access. The city’s 91 pools are set to open soon for the summer, and safety measures are in place to ensure all patrons have an enjoyable and secure experience.
The Astoria pool was already filled with water earlier than usual this year due to a recent construction project, as reported by a Department source. Despite the unauthorized swimming incident, police have not received any reports of trespassing at the public pool. New York City beaches have been open for swimmers since the end of May with lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily for the summer season.
The summer swimming season officially ends on September 8th, providing ample time for New Yorkers to enjoy the city’s pools and beaches. With the warm weather approaching, many are eager to take a refreshing break in the water, even if official opening dates have not yet arrived. While safety is always a top priority at public pools, incidents like the one in Astoria remind everyone to follow guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience.
City officials are working to ensure that all pools are properly staffed with lifeguards and security measures to prevent any unauthorized access. The incident in Queens serves as a reminder for patrons to only swim in designated areas during open hours to avoid any potential dangers. With the summer season in full swing, it’s essential for New Yorkers to follow the rules for a fun and safe swimming experience at the city’s pools and beaches.
As the weather heats up and people seek ways to stay cool, city pools and beaches offer a popular option for recreation and relaxation. While some may be eager to jump in early, it’s important to respect the rules and regulations in place to ensure everyone’s safety. By following guidelines and only swimming in authorized areas, New Yorkers can enjoy a refreshing swim in the midst of the city’s vibrant summer season.
