'Code Brown' Closes NAC Pool Twice Since Saturday

This story was initially posted at 4 p.m. Monday but has been updated to include details about the pool's new policy.

For the second time since Saturday, the Newtown Athletic Club has been forced to close one of its pools after a child had a bathroom-related accident in the water. 

The club’s zero-entry pool, which is used mainly by children and families, was closed for 12 hours Saturday and then again Monday after a child defecated in the pool, club spokeswoman Linda Mitchell said.

“It is clearly an issue with children and even children who are potty trained have accidents,” Mitchell said, adding “we are trying to be very family friendly.”

When feces is found in the water, the pool must be closed for 12 hours and 45 minutes following the incident, Mitchell explained, adding that is according to legal guidelines regulating pool operation. 

In response, the NAC has instituted new "safety breaks" every hour. The new policy was announced Monday evening. The safety breaks, which will begin Tuesday, do not apply to the adult-only pool.

"During the last five minutes of every hour we will be clearing all recreational pools for five minutes," a NAC announcement said. "It will be a great time for parents to reapply sunscreen, be sure that their children are well hydrated, take a bathroom break and maybe grab a snack from the concession."  

Mitchell said all children who are not potty trained are required to wear swim diapers at the NAC pools. “We also recommend regular potty breaks for children and keeping a child who does not feel well out of the pools,” she said.  

“Even with the best of intentions on the part of all parties, families and management alike, accidents do happen,” she said.  

“We are very diligent about following all regulations regarding pool safety and sanitation.  Therefore we do have to close in certain situations," Mitchell said. 

"Fortunately, we have only had to close one pool, the Zero entry pool. The slides, slide pools, lazy river, splash pad and adult pool and spa are open,” she said Monday afternoon.