Pool and water safety

"As a former lifeguard, I can't emphasize enough the importance of learning to swim, improving your swimming ability and wearing a life jacket in bodies of water such as rivers, lakes and oceans. I encourage King County residents to enjoy our local pools and beaches in a safe way."

~ King County Executive Ron Sims.


April Pools DayEvery April, pools around Seattle and King County host "April Pools Day" events to promote water safety and drowning prevention. Activities geared toward the whole family often include a free swim hour, life jacket demonstrations, and water safety and rescue lessons.

Past Public Health press releases



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Swimming and Spa Pools
If you own or manage a water recreation pool or spa, read about requirements to ensure you maintain a safe environment.

Swimmer's Itch
The parasite that causes Swimmers' Itch is deposited into lakes via goose and duck droppings. After burrowing into the skin, the parasite dies and the body reacts by forming red itchy bumps.