What guidelines must be followed upon hearing thunder?

The appropriate action to take upon hearing thunder involves a specific protocol to ensure the safety of all patrons. When thunder is heard, the correct guideline is that patrons must clear the pool immediately. This is crucial because thunder is typically associated with lightning, which poses a significant risk to individuals in or near the water.

While it’s common for facilities to have a 30-minute rule for returning to the water after hearing thunder, this suggests a misunderstanding of the immediate response to thunder. The priority is to ensure that everyone is out of the water and in a safe location until conditions can be reassessed.

The facility may not necessarily need to close for the day or relocate, depending on the severity of the storm and management policies. However, the foremost guideline is to clear the pool to prevent any potential accidents or injuries caused by lightning strikes, which are more likely to occur when thunder is heard.