Ready to cool off? Freetown and Fall River pools are open with restrictions

Pools are now open in the Fall River area.

According to a spokesperson, starting June 26, 2020, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has opened Veterans Memorial Pool in Fall River and the Freetown State Forest wading pool to the public.

The spokesperson told Fall River Reporter that the facilities are open seven days a week. The pool is open from 11:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m., and the wading pool is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The facilities’ capacity has been reduced by 60% in accordance with safety standards issued by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) as part of Phase II of the Baker-Polito Administration’s reopening plan.

Furthermore, social distancing of at least 6 feet is required for all individuals outside of a household group and applies to deck areas, bathrooms, and wading areas.

Additionally, visitors are required to wear a face mask or facial covering when not swimming, and are asked to administer healthy personal hygiene, such as handwashing for at least 20 seconds.

According to the CDC, there is currently no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through the water in pools. Proper operation and maintenance (including disinfection with chlorine and bromine) of these facilities should inactivate the virus in the water.

Locker rooms and changing areas should be closed in Phase II. Restroom or shower facilities (if access is required) can be accessed through a locker room, but operators must ensure that guests do not use the lockers or changing area.