Swim safe: Oasis Pool opens for the summer Published May 20, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Shen-Chia Chu 436th AW Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- The Oasis Pool, located in Eagle Heights, will open for Team Dover members and their guests this season beginning May 23, kicking off the season of pool fun and water safety. Oasis Pool is the only pool at Dover Air Force Base, because the base pool has closed permanently due to construction for the new Fitness Center. Annual pool passes are available for purchase depending on the number of family members and a daily pool pass is $3. "We've sold 70 pool passes so far," said Chris Smith, 436th Force Support Squadron Outdoor Recreation manager. "We've also had many people sign up for private pool parties." Though it may be fun to participate in pool activities, Mr. Smith reminds Team Dover they must follow the rules at the pool. "We need to be conscious of others, so we don't inhibit their opportunity to have a great time," said Mr. Smith. "It's important to be safe so we can enjoy the privileges." The pool opens Memorial Day Weekend, which is the start of the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign. Air Force safety statistics show that during this period there are increased mishaps, and the second highest number of fatalities has involved water sports and drowning. "We've all heard stories about drowning that could have been prevented," said Master Sgt. Kevin Casquarelli, 512th Airlift Wing Safety Office ground safety manager. "According to Safe Kids Worldwide, an average of 17 children die every day from injuries that could have been prevented." Sergeant Casquarelli gives a simple solution to prevent drowning. "Children and non-swimmers should not be left unattended," he said. "Drowning only takes a matter of seconds."