2020 Health & COVID-19 Protocols
Managing risk is a team effort that begins with being responsible for your own preparation and practices.
2020 COVID response and pOLICIES
The well being of our swimmers and crew is a top priority. As we transition to return to our normal operations, we have elevated and implemented strict policies and procedures on cleanliness, sanitation, social distancing and other measures to ensure our athletes feel comfortable and confident that they are in a healthy environment.
Current statements from the CDC and Maryland State agencies indicate that outdoor regulations for vaccinated people have returned to pre-covid life. (See the statement below) We continue to monitor the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and local jurisdiction’s statements regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and following the necessary guidelines from these agencies as well as the local health departments.
Statement from Gov. Larry Hogan - “INDOOR AND OUTDOOR VENUES. Effective May 15, indoor and outdoor venues may resume normal operations. All remaining capacity restrictions will be lifted on all indoor entertainment venues and conventions, and all outdoor entertainment, art, and sports venues, including all ticketed events.” Full statement and regulations here.
Policies & Procedures for 2021
RESERVATIONS ONLY: We are solely using our on-line reservation/registration system this season, which will allow the maximum number of swimmers to pre-pay and reserve a place to swim in each session. You must attend the session for which you registered. You will be able to sign up on the WaveOne Open Water web pages and through the links on our social media channels. ALL Gold and Season Members must register for each swim. ALL swimmers must complete the online waivers ahead of time.
ALL swimmers Must Wear a Mask, anytime on the pier, and prior to descending to the dock to enter the water. No mask, no entry.
ALL swimmers Must maintain social distancing guidelines and stand 6 ft. apart while waiting to enter the water at the dock.
WaveOne dryland crew will be wearing face masks at all times, with the possible exception of the on water crew in kayaks/paddleboards. This is to be prepared for on water emergency communications and action.
ALL swimmers must maintain appropriate distance in the water and while waiting to use an exit ladder. No spitting or splashing will be tolerated while in the water.
A shower on the dock shall be available to rinse off after the swim. Biodegradable soap may be supplied. Maximum shower time is 30 seconds to enable swimmers access without extended wait times. Maintain distance while waiting for your turn.
Limited Restroom use will be available at National Harbor.
A bag drop area will be available on the pier. The area is supervised but use of the bag drop area is at your risk only. WaveOne assumes no responsibility for the safety of your personal items. If you cycle to the swim, you are responsible for the security of your bicycle and other items. No lockers or dry bags will be available.
There will not be a place to change clothes on-site, please arrive ready to swim.
Food and drink is not available so please bring your own if needed. You may keep a water bottle on the dock for use during your swim. Please visit the many cafes and restaurants at National Harbor.
No refunds or transfers for no-shows regardless of your excuse. See our Weather and Cancellation Policy.
If you need any assistance during the reservation process, please email us at info@waveoneswimming.com
Cancellations and Refunds
Our cancellation and refund policies have changed. We will be updating this section of our website to share the most up to date information.
Crew and Swimmer Health
WaveOne Open Water has implemented policies and procedures to protect swimmers and employees against virus transmission.
Washing Hands & Hand Sanitizer
All employees will continue to engage in frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizer. Dispensers shall be placed at key contact areas. At a minimum, this will include registration area and other public areas as applicable to the property.
Front of the House Signage
During all times in which the usage of masks is recommended by the CDC and/or other local health authorities, health and hygiene reminders will be placed at high-traffic areas on property indicating the proper way to wear, handle and dispose of masks.
Crew & Swimmer Health Concerns
Responding swiftly and reporting to local health officials any presumed cases of COVID-19 at the property shall be a staff-wide requirement.
At minimum, confirmed cases of COVID-19 shall be immediately reported to local health authorities in accordance with appropriate actions recommended by the CDC.
Cleaning Products & Protocols
Cleaning products and protocols will include EPA-approved disinfectants that meet CDC requirements for use and effectiveness against viruses, bacteria and other airborne and blood-borne pathogens.
Ongoing Training
In addition to training on housekeeping and hygiene protocols, our crew is also completing enhanced COVID-19 awareness training.
Physical Distancing & Queuing
As recommended by the CDC’s social distancing guidelines, swimmers shall be advised to practice physical distancing by standing at least six feet away from other groups of people not traveling with them, including any area where guests or crew queue. Such areas shall be clearly marked for appropriate physical distancing, and where possible, encourage one-way person flow with marked entrances and exits.
For the most updated information, please refer to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or your local health authority.
General Guidelines for Healthy Open Water Swimming
Anyone can become unwell from swimming in open water as there will always be micro-organisms present from countless sources. Contact with a natural body of water, runs the risk of picking up a parasitic, viral or bacterial infection. Fortunately, the human body and common sense prevention protect you against most pathogens and harm. Following are some suggestions to give you a biological edge in successful open water swimming. (For other How To considerations for open water swimming, see our article in Triathlete Magazine.)
Stay healthy. Sounds obvious, but being healthy takes constant vigilance and practice. Eat well, sleep well, take supplements, stay strong, be mindful.
Build and maintain your immune system. Those with an impaired immune system are more susceptible to infection.
Protect yourself or don’t swim if you have open wounds or fresh cuts or abrasions. Clean and disinfect all compromised areas after each swim.
Use earplugs and/or rinse your ears with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide after a swim.
Shower after each swim. Use a cleansing or bacteria killing soap or body wash. Leave lather on your body for approximately 20 seconds before rinsing. See Defense Soap (specifically formulated for contact in gyms and close contact sports).
Don’t drink alcohol and swim. Open water and alcohol do not mix.
Time your pre-swim meal properly for digestion and nutrition that does not negatively impact your stomach and muscles. Eat and hydrate to fuel yourself for the distance.
Do your best not to swallow water. Children and novice swimmers are more likely to swallow water accidentally.
Check the depth of the water and beware of potentially sharp objects, rocks, pilings or broken glass, on the bottom or below the surface, that can cause cuts and bruises. Use caution where you step and always look before you leap. Always enter the water feet first.
Muscle cramps can be painful and disabling. If you are prone to cramping or just completed another athletic activity, fuel with plenty of hydration and electrolytes.
Avoid swimming in coastal waters immediately after heavy rainfall that might wash contaminants or sewage into the water. Allow ample time for the water to return to swimming standards.
Use a swim buoy, such as New Wave Swim Buoy, for added protection and visibility.
If you fall ill with symptoms after an event, then see your doctor immediately.
Open water swimming is a strenuous and potentially hazardous activity. Always consult your physician and obtain permission prior to swimming in the open water.
