Lifeguard tips of the trade--Lane lines
The next time you have a patron lounging on the lane lines inform them of the crucial role lane lines play in emergency and injury prevention. Lane lines, when installed correctly, at an aquatic facility serve a variety of safety functions. Lane lines should be tight enough to float at the surface of the water and be able to support the weight of an adult swimmer in distress.
In addition to providing an organized system for lap swimmers by creating travel lanes, the lines also provide stability for those who find themselves in a stressful situation and otherwise unable to get to a wall or touch the bottom. Thus it is important that the lane line remain at the surface where it is intended. They are not to be used as a relaxation station or as toys for recreation swimmers. A submerged lane line is more difficult for a struggling swimmer to grasp hold of, potentially increasing the feeling of panic. While they tend to be an expensive replacement fixture at pools, the reason pool staff should keep them clear should never be a financial one.
Lane floats that are chipped, broken or missing and a splintering steel cable can cause a variety of injuries. Restore or replace lane lines before they become a hazard.
Lane lines can create surveillance issues as well. While they break the pool into easy to define areas of responsibility, they also act as potential obstructions to the field of vision at distance and certain angles. Be certain to adjust scanning and the position of the lifeguards to ensure complete pool coverage.
Educating all patrons at an early age as to the proper use of the lane line will create an understanding of their importance in the event they are in a future emergency.
Which corrective approach is better?
1. Get off the lane line (please). If it breaks they are expensive to replace.
2. Are you all right? May I assist you to a wall? The lane line is a piece of rescue equipment that needs to remain clear in case of an emergency. | 
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