In the interest of protecting our members and staff, the Aquatics staff will close the pool when lightning strikes within a 6-mile radius of the YMCA. If classes are cancelled, makeup classes will be offered throughout the session.
For the latest updates on pool closings, download our updated Daxko mobile app (iPhone, Android) for notifications or check the FSPY Facebook page. You also can call the FSPY Welcome Center at 908-889-8880 to check on pool closures.
Read more about aquatic lightning protection and how members can sign-up for make-up classes.
Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA Aquatic Lightning Protection
Taking Steps to Maintain Safety in an Electrical Storm
Lightning can affect an indoor swimming facility. When it strikes outdoors, it can then travel through wires, plumbing, etc., presenting a risk indoors. There is also the possibility of a direct strike to the building.
The Aquatics program staff will receive an alert when lightning strikes within a 6-mile radius of the YMCA. The range of 6 miles is based on studies of the distance between successive cloud-to-ground flashes in the same thunderstorm. Studies show that 80% of the next flashes are within 6 miles, so that staff can take precautions to get children to safety. If the distance is much larger than a 6-mile radius, excessive warning occurs. If the area is much smaller than 6 miles, there is too little time to act.
In the interest of protecting our members and staff, the following precautions will be taken in the event of an electrical storm:
- The pool and whirlpool will be closed as soon as a signal is given from our lightning detection service.
- It will remain closed until 30 minutes from the last thunder is heard/lightning is detected.
Making up classes that are canceled due to an electrical storm:
If the Aquatic Department closes the pool due to lightning, we will make every effort to offer makeup swim lessons. We will only assign a makeup class date for classes canceled by the Aquatic Department. The Aquatic Department will communicate details to participants before the next scheduled class. If you have any questions about cancelled or make up classes, please contact the Aquatics Department at aquatics@fspymca.org.