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CORTLANDT MANOR, N.Y.A gorgeous forecast and a three-day holiday weekend have officials at the Charles J. Cook Memorial Pool preparing for large crowds in the coming days.
I wouldnt be surprised if we had over 1,000 people, said Rob Segnit, pool director.
Though the pool will maintain regular hours during the holiday weekend, it has begun staying open late on Friday nights to accommodate more swimmers.
The pool has a capacity of 1,200 people and between 17 and 18 lifeguards on at any given time, some poolside and others watching over the crowds. Public safety staff has even been sent out to direct traffic during especially heavy days.
Theres a lot of people, said Segnit. So we want to ensure its a safe and fun time for everyone.
The likelihood, according to Recreation Department Director John Palmiotto, is that the parking lot will fill up before the pool fills up. Patrons should know that there are three parking lots at the pool and a fourth is opened for more crowded days.
The parking lots are located on all four side of the pool but there is only one access off Furnace Dock Road.
There is a small chance of isolated thunderstorms predicted for the Fourth of July and patrons should note that lifeguards will ask swimmers to exit the pool in the event that anyone hears thunder or sees lightning.
After one half hour of clear skies and no sound of thunder, swimmers can reenter. This can be difficult, according to lifeguard Travis Mueller, when everyones excited, and everyone wants to go back in the pool.
Charles J. Cook Memorial Pool opens at 10:45 a.m. and closes at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Fridays.
The pool has a snack bar, however it does not however sell sunscreen, the item most commonly forgotten by the public.
If somebody needs it, we generally have it., said Lesley Bornstein, pool supervisor.
Rates vary for residents and there is a discount after 4 p.m. for seniors, children and with a valid resident identification card.
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