Red and Green Flag Safety System

Lifeguard Safety Plan: Red and Green Flag System for Pool Crowd Control & Jumping Safety

Purpose

To enhance swimmer safety by managing pool entry during periods of high swimmer density. This plan prevents jumping-related accidents, particularly from poolside edges, and helps lifeguards monitor and control crowd levels more effectively.

Flag System Overview

• Green Flag:
  Safe to Jump – The pool has adequate space for children to safely jump from the sides.
  ✅ Jumping is allowed from designated poolside areas.
  ✅ Lifeguards actively supervise but do not restrict jumping.
• Red Flag:
  Too Crowded – No Jumping – The pool is considered too crowded for safe jumping.
  ⛔ Jumping from poolside is not permitted.
  ⛔ Lifeguards must actively enforce the no-jumping rule.

Flag Placement & Visibility

• Flags must be placed in clearly visible areas near each lifeguard station or entrance to the pool deck.
• Lifeguards should verbally explain the flag system to swimmers and parents as needed.

Criteria for Flag Status

• Switch to RED FLAG if any of the following apply:
• • Pool occupancy exceeds safe swimmer-to-space ratio (as determined by facility policy or visual crowding).
  • Inability to maintain clear jump zones due to high swimmer density.
  • Multiple near-miss incidents or reports of swimmers being jumped on.
  • Lifeguard judgment deems jumping unsafe based on current conditions.
• Switch to GREEN FLAG when:
• • Pool density decreases to a safe level.
  • Clear areas for jumping can be maintained and supervised.
  • All prior safety concerns have been resolved.

Lifeguard Responsibilities

• Monitor pool crowding continuously.
• Display correct flag color visibly and change it promptly as conditions change.
• Enforce jumping rules based on flag status, using clear and calm verbal reminders.
• Report incidents or flag changes to the head lifeguard or pool supervisor.
• Educate swimmers (especially children) and parents about the flag system regularly.

Communication Plan

• A brief orientation on the red/green flag system is included in swimmer safety announcements and posted signage.
• Lifeguards should provide polite reminders during peak hours.
• Use a whistle signal (e.g., two short tweets) and a hand signal to indicate a switch to red flag if needed during busy times.

Signage Example

GREEN FLAG

Poolside jumping is permitted. Have fun and be safe!

 RED FLAG
Pool is too crowded – Jumping from the side is not allowed at this time for everyone's safety. Thank you!