Pasco’s Memorial Park pool to reopen Saturday after near drowning
Pasco’s Memorial Park pool was expected to reopen to the public Saturday, June 22, after it closed for a few days following the rescue of a teen who nearly drowned.
City officials told the Herald on Friday they couldn’t discuss the details about the “critical incident” that caused the pool to close to the public earlier this week.
But Pasco fire officials previously confirmed reports that a lifeguard rescued a teen after the swimmer went underwater Tuesday afternoon.
There have been some different accounts about what happened. A fire official said the lifeguard was proactive, but some witnesses have posted on social media that bystanders had to yell at lifeguards to get their attention about the struggling teen.
One lifeguard was able to get the teen out of the pool. Other lifeguards joined as they performed CPR and revived the teen, who was taken to Kadlec Regional Medical Center.
The city’s Friday news release promised that city staff members are conducting an “ongoing investigation and review,” and the state Department of Health will examine how city staff responded.
“Our response to this incident is guided by a relentless commitment to excellence and safety in all city services,” city officials said. “We are committed to ensuring that our facilities meet and surpass safety standards.”
City officials said they held an all-staff meeting to reinforce safety standards. They also provided assistance services to staff working at the pool.
“As we reopen Memorial Aquatic Park, we are optimistic about providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all our patrons. We look forward to seeing our community members return to enjoy the recreational opportunities our facility offers,” city officials said.
The pool at 1520 W. Shoshone St. opens at 1 p.m. and fees range from $4-$5 for youth or $6-$7 for adults, depending on the session you attend. There also are family rates.
