Many DuPage pools prepare for opening weekend

Crews were putting the finishing touches on many pools and water parks across DuPage County Friday in preparation for the holiday weekend and the traditional start of the outdoor swimming season.

A variety of training sessions and activities for lifeguards and other part-time employees have been going on in many towns since early April, officials said.

"We have more than 300 people who work in our facilities in the summer who are trained in lifeguarding, concessions and admissions," said Dan Novak, superintendent of special facilities for the Wheaton Park District.

Naperville Park District crews also were planning for Saturday's opening of Centennial Beach.

"Based on the weather forecast, we're expecting a lot of swimmers over the holiday weekend," Director of Recreation Brad Wilson said.

Extra employees and lifeguards will be rotated to help handle the demands of opening weekend, but Wilson said he's confident things will go smoothly.

"We've been training our lifeguards for months," he said, "and we're looking forward to having a great opening weekend."

Carol Stream will not open its Coral Cove Water Park until June 7, but its indoor pool at the Fountain View Recreation Center remains open year-round.