In the wake of several lightning storms on the East Coast, Washington D.C. has enforced a new rule for its indoor pools.
Despite all of the capital's public pools being grounded, they will empty pools if lightning is in the forecast.
Instead of leaving it up to each pool, new technology — using satellite imagery — helps streamline the process of figuring out when both indoor and outdoor facilities pull swimmers out of the water, according to a report on WTOP.com.
"When there’s a confirmed lightning strike within five miles of any pool, the pool gets notified electronically within three seconds of the strike,” said Tyrell Lashley, aquatics director for the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation.
According to the news agency, the decision to implement the rule was based on advice from national organizations such as the American Red Cross and the National Lightning Safety Institute.
Not all facilities believe this action is necessary. Read More
