American Red Cross

I’m writing to clarify a statement about the American Red Cross that appeared in a letter to the editor (“Lakes at Hansen Dam,” Letters to the Valley Edition, Nov. 14). The author states: “Part of the problem of attendance is attributed by local residents to the zealous enforcement of Red Cross-approved bathing suits, which local residents and white lifeguards agree is a racially motivated policy.”

The American Red Cross does not have a Red Cross-approved swimsuit. Swimsuit requirements, if any, are established by the pool facility. Regulations help ensure safe facility operation and help prevent injuries and disease transmission by setting standards for the facility.

Typical rules established by the health department or other local agencies require patrons to shower before entering the water, wear swimming caps and wear appropriate swimming attire. Appropriate attire might preclude loose clothing because it could get caught on a slide or a diving board or T-shirts that could go over a person’s face and restrict breathing.

The American Red Cross has been involved in water safety for 85 years, since Commodore Wilbert E. Longfellow established the volunteer-based Life Saving Service with a primary objective of “waterproofing America.” Today the American Red Cross trains more than 140,000 lifeguards annually and sets the standards that lead the field of lifeguarding.

H. T. LINKE

Director,

Communication and Marketing

American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles