Poll : Should all WDW and DVC Resortsa go with a wrist band system for the pool areas

[dumbo71]

A recent posts about guests is the motivation for this poll.

Would you like to see a wrist band ssytem used to help alleviate the pool hopping situation and the flagrant abuse of bringing in unregistered guests at WDW?

[vascubaguy]

I voted no, only because I think it would be overkill to have it at ALL the resorts. Not to mention the increase in expense to supply the bands and have people out to enforce it. It already gets limited enforcement at the resorts that do utilize the wristbands.

Oh, and although I haven't done this, I wouldn't see a problem if my cousin (who lives in Orlando) comes to visit me while I'm at WDW and we hung out at the pool.

[DisDaydreamer]

I voted no, only because I think it would be overkill to have it at ALL the resorts. Not to mention the increase in expense to supply the bands and have people out to enforce it. It already gets limited enforcement at the resorts that do utilize the wristbands.

Oh, and although I haven't done this, I wouldn't see a problem if my cousin (who lives in Orlando) comes to visit me while I'm at WDW and we hung out at the pool.

That says it pretty well for me too.

[JimMIA]

To be honest --although I voted yes, but only in the pool area -- We really have not encountered this problem during our visits. Maybe it's because of staying mostly at OKW, or maybe it's the time of year we go, but we just haven't seen it. I'm sure it's a problem at SAB, though.

My other reservation with this idea is that Disney doesn't enforce their rules much anyway, so it's illogical to think they would enforce this one.

[shellybaxter]

I think the wrist bands are tacky and I would HATE having to wear one. I think that Disney should retain their control over whether they want to enforce the "no pool hoping" rules or not. My guess is that in January Disney could care less who swims in their pools. And if people are swimming they are probably eating or drinking and will make Disney money.

[Granny]

I wouldn't have a problem with wristbands at the "problem" pools. I think WL probably has the worst problem after SAB, with maybe the BWV third. I think if they had the policy, it would cut down dramatically on the problem since I do think that many people honestly have no idea that pool hopping isn't a universal privilege for Disney resort guests.

My other reservation with this idea is that Disney doesn't enforce their rules much anyway, so it's illogical to think they would enforce this one.We have only gone during the summer, but have always noticed that SAB wrist bands were being rigorously enforced. Even if they don't enforce 100%, it would cut back on pool crashing from the standpoint that many people think that no wristband program = no rule being broken. I've seen many posts on the other boards talking freely about pool hopping, and many say "except SAB, of course".

[cdmickey]

Pool police: No.

[Granny]

Pool police: No.
What's worse...pool police or pool crashing to the point where resort guests can't enjoy their pool?

[dsneygirl]

We were at BCV and SAB the first week of Oct and it was maybe 25% full at any time. They were handing out wristbands first thing in the morning but if you went down there after 3 or 4 there was no one checking. For peak periods (Xmas, 4th of July) maybe but obviously it's not necessary every day of the year.

[vascubaguy]

What's worse...pool police or pool crashing to the point where resort guests can't enjoy their pool?

That depends... who's paying for it?

Instead of bands... why not gated entry that requires a room key to get in the pool area?

[paults]

no but maybe on busy times of the year. I see that the expense could be a problem.

BUT I have a solution . Now that Disney is using the finger scanning to get into the parks what happened to all those rubber hand stamps. Might as well put those hand stamps to use at the pools :lmao: even if only at busy times.
No room key then no hand stamp.

On less busy time of the year there's no need for it, so guests of guests would be allowed.

when its busy a lifeguard can check the hand stamp with a hand held detector. No stamp ( politly ask them to leave) :goodvibes

Look MOM no gaudy wristband :rotfl:

[bobbiwoz]

Wristbands don't bother us. If pool crashing is a problem, and I think at VWL/WL it is, I would be happy if Disney did something, and wristbands would be a solution I could live with.

Bobbi :)

[Olaf]

They have wristbands at BCV, but when we were there, the CM's weren't enforcing it. You just needed them to get towels. Saw plenty of people without them. :rolleyes:

[keishashadow]

Let's just go with tatoos;)

I always moaned & groaned when I had to wear a wristband @ beach resorts (especially the ones that charged you an additional fee to replace them each day if you removed them-stupid IMO).

I've seen the light...both @ WL in Dec & BW in June...the pool areas were packed, think wristbands would've cured that situation in a hurry.

Must say was surprised as to the small amount of guests @ SAB in Oct. They were checking bands when we visited the pool area (between 1:00 p.m & 4:00 p.m.), nice surprise to be able to actually get a lounge chair for a change.:thumbsup2

[tjkraz]

...and the flagrant abuse of bringing in unregistered guests at WDW?

That has got to be the funniest thing I've read in a looooong time. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Such venom behind those words. :lmao:

Nothing says "magical" quite like wristband checkpoints scattered throughout your (otherwise) 4-star resort. Gotta keep the riff-raff out, eh? :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

[dumbo71]

That has got to be the funniest thing I've read in a looooong time. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: Such venom behind those words. :lmao:

Nothing says "magical" quite like wristband checkpoints scattered throughout your (otherwise) 4-star resort. Gotta keep the riff-raff out, eh? :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:


No, not rif raf. These where YOUR words.

What is wrong with wanting to keep the pools for paying guests? I often stay at BCV and the wrist bands do not offend me in the least. I also have no problem finding a seat or enjoying that pool. Seems to me the system works there, why not implement it elsewhere?

WL and BWV have serious problems. SSR is next. When I see a problem I like to correct it.

Sorry if you don't agree Tkraz. Certain topics are hot topics for certain people. Pool crashers are mine.

[tjkraz]

Very well. Your words:

"I would say they can visit only if that doesn't put you over the occupancy limits for the room you have booked."

"Security shouldn't be allowing any unregistered guests into any resorts."

And then there's the previously quoted comment about the "...flagrant abuse of bringing in unregistered guests..."

I see you're now trying to spin things a bit differently, implying that this is targeted at pool crashers only. Seems a bit disingenuous given that your poll suggests that one option would be to require wristbands be worn throughout the resort. After all, if the wristbands are to address pool abuse only, then poll options 1 and 4 are the same, no?

Still, I'll give you credit for seeing the error of your ways. :thumbsup2

As for this comment: "When I see a problem I like to correct it." I think your expectations might be a bit lofty given that this is.....ahem....a web site poll.

[Beca]

I'm all for wristbands at pools!! I really LOVE the fact that DVC does this with SAB. I truly feel sorry for people at VWL who cannot enjoy the same benefit of only having resorts guests in the pool. Personally, I think it is hypocritical of DVC to monitor some pools, and not monitor others. I just cannot figure out their "basis" for what needs to be monitored. Based on the MANY posts I have read here about the problems at VWL, that pool obviously needs to be monitored. It is having a negative effect on the guests of the resort. Wearing a wrist band does not bother me NEARLY as much as hearing people bragging about coming over from Epcot in the heat of the day for a "mid-afternoon break" would. To be fair, I think DVC/WDW needs to enforce their pool policy much better. Why even bother having a rule if you, and everyone who want to break it know that there is no enforcement? Either enforce it, or don't make it a rule. :confused3

[dumbo71]

Very well. Your words:

"I would say they can visit only if that doesn't put you over the occupancy limits for the room you have booked."

"Security shouldn't be allowing any unregistered guests into any resorts."

And then there's the previously quoted comment about the "...flagrant abuse of bringing in unregistered guests..."

I see you're now trying to spin things a bit differently, implying that this is targeted at pool crashers only. Seems a bit disingenuous given that your poll suggests that one option would be to require wristbands be worn throughout the resort. After all, if the wristbands are to address pool abuse only, then poll options 1 and 4 are the same, no?

Still, I'll give you credit for seeing the error of your ways. :thumbsup2

As for this comment: "When I see a problem I like to correct it." I think your expectations might be a bit lofty given that this is.....ahem....a web site poll.


Well, thanks... I guess. Over 69% of the people who responded would like to see a wrist band instituted in some fashion.

Pool is my main focus.

Is it safe to assume you voted no?

[cobbler]

WL and BWV have serious problems. SSR is next.
You hit that nail on the head. At least when I was there mid October. I know there were some DTD resort area guests (or coming over from DTD in general) by the main pool.

Luckily it wasn't overly crowded but I can see it has great potential to become so in the future.

[JimMIA]

... and the flagrant abuse of bringing in unregistered guests at WDW?I have to agree with Tim on this part of your OP. Unless there is a prohibition against non-guests visiting DVC resorts (and I'm under the impression it's perfectly okay), I don't see how any "unregistered guest abuse" could exist.

The resorts are obviously open to anyone for dining, shopping, exploring, visiting the spa, visiting DVC sales offices for tours, etc. I don't think Disney should want to prohibit any of that, unless they've just completely taken leave of their senses. :crazy:

The pools are a different matter, but I also think it's a different situation if someone is visiting a registered guest and using the pool, as opposed to just getting off the bus and going to the pool. I'm sure there is a lot of both going on.

[Chuck S]

I voted "no". While I think the need for a wristband system may indeed exist at some DVC resorts (VB, as it is more open to the public, and of course SAB, which already has a system in place), I just don't see it being a huge problem at OKW and some of the other WDW resorts. Apparently if Disney has seen a true need at a particular resort, then they have put protections in place. BTW, all CMs can check room keys if the need arises anywhere, and they do during the really busy seasons.

Also, wristbands aren't free. Let's say that they decide to change colors everyday...or to svae CM time, simply use the same color, but have them imprinted with resort name. Figuring 25¢ per band, plus CM time to order them, distribute, check them and fence each pool, estimate a cost of a minimum of $1 per room per day, figuring replacement cost for those that use then dispose of the writbands, then have to get new ones, maintenance on the fence, etc. So SSR would be $800 per day to implement this program, or...hmm...$292K per year. Even half that would be $140K per year...could that $$ be better spent elsewhere?

[JimMIA]

The first part of Chuck's post also reminds me of a refrain we hear very frequently here, and it's probably a better way to stop abuse than wristbands.

"If you see what you think is a problem, tell somebody right then." We can't expect DVC to enforce anything at any resort (or correct housekeeping issues, or fix a messed up ressie request, or deal with a less-than-Magical CM, etc, etc.) if we don't tell them about it.

For example, I haven't actually seen the kind of abuse Dumbo71 is talking about. But I have seen people going down to the pools early in the AM and spreading out towels so they'll have a nice pool lounge when they return from the theme parks at 4 PM. Whenever I see that, I just go ask a lifeguard if it's okay -- and of course they tell me no, it's not. So then I say, "Well, I guess they were saving that lounge for me then!" The lifeguards always laugh and say yes. I tell them good, because if there is an issue, I'm going to send the person who left the towel back to them for resolution. That does two things -- it gives me a perfect answer if I'm confronted (only happened once, and it was FUN! ), and it also puts the lifeguard on notice that DVC members know the rules they are supposed to be enforcing...in a nice way, of course.

(BTW, I don't care if there are 100 empty pool lounges, I always take one with a towel on it. pirate: They're better -- there's a reason why someone tried to save that particular pool lounge. Plus, you get an extra towel. :teeth: )

A lot of the problems we like to whine about here could be corrected over time if we'd just take a moment to tell someone about them.

[doubletrouble_vb]

VWL does have a problem. It used to be just the theme pool but its spilled over to the DVC pool too.

I have a couple of ideas to help. No need for wrist bands all of the time. The majority of the year it wouldn't be a problem in most locations. Memorial Day to mid August probably should have a wrist band patrol on all of the pools with slides at least in the afternoons. The rest of the year the resorts could share two or three teams Friday through Monday. Where they'll pop up nobody knows. After a couple years of that Disney could pull back during the summer to random wrist band squads.

[dumbo71]

I have to agree with Tim on this part of your OP. Unless there is a prohibition against non-guests visiting DVC resorts (and I'm under the impression it's perfectly okay), I don't see how any "unregistered guest abuse" could exist.

The resorts are obviously open to anyone for dining, shopping, exploring, visiting the spa, visiting DVC sales offices for tours, etc. I don't think Disney should want to prohibit any of that, unless they've just completely taken leave of their senses. :crazy:

The pools are a different matter, but I also think it's a different situation if someone is visiting a registered guest and using the pool, as opposed to just getting off the bus and going to the pool. I'm sure there is a lot of both going on.


Jim and Tim,

I concede on this part of the post. I don't have a problem with an owner having guests over.

The ABUSE is where I draw the line. VWL, BWV and soon SSR all have problems with this. OKW being so remote is the only DVC I can think of that wouldn't benefit from the wrist band system.

Thanks for the votes and the posts.

p.s. I like the removal of towels idea but how do you know that the person hasn't just went in for a bite to eat? Do you wait a while before removal?

[dumbo71]

I voted "no". While I think the need for a wristband system may indeed exist at some DVC resorts (VB, as it is more open to the public, and of course SAB, which already has a system in place), I just don't see it being a huge problem at OKW and some of the other WDW resorts. Apparently if Disney has seen a true need at a particular resort, then they have put protections in place. BTW, all CMs can check room keys if the need arises anywhere, and they do during the really busy seasons.

Also, wristbands aren't free. Let's say that they decide to change colors everyday...or to svae CM time, simply use the same color, but have them imprinted with resort name. Figuring 25¢ per band, plus CM time to order them, distribute, check them and fence each pool, estimate a cost of a minimum of $1 per room per day, figuring replacement cost for those that use then dispose of the writbands, then have to get new ones, maintenance on the fence, etc. So SSR would be $800 per day to implement this program, or...hmm...$292K per year. Even half that would be $140K per year...could that $$ be better spent elsewhere?



Thanks for the vote Chuck. The cost is certainly an issue to consider. The resort that currently uses it is BCV. Does BCV have higher dues than the other DVC's attached to a hotel like VWL and BWV? If so, then maybe the difference has to do with the wrist bands. It would then become an issue if that expense is worth it.

I would still vote yes. Pool hoppers and crashers have ruined VWL stays in the past for our family. That pool is a little small to begin with. Add in the uninvited and it is way too much.

[CarolMN]

Don't need wristbands, IMHO.

If the resorts really cared about this issue (I don't think they do), all they really need is for the pool CMs/Lifeguards to make an announcement every so often during the busy periods. "Just reminding everyone that the pool is for registered guests of the resort. We'll be walking around checking for room keys" (No need to clutter up the announcement by listing the exceptions - they and the DVC members know the exceptions).

I for one wouldn't mind seeing a few people packing up to leave. The word would get out and there would be less of a problem.

FWIW, I agree that BWV and VWL currently have the worst problem.

Best wishes -

P.S. to Jim - I also think it is nice to find a clean, fresh towel on the lounge chairs, but so far no one has ever tried to tell me the chair I chose belonged to them. :)

[tjkraz]

Is it safe to assume you voted no?

Actually I don't have a real problem with it. Tens-of-thousands of owners at a single resort sharing the costs of wristbands plus one CM to handle pool security isn't going to break the bank.

I guess the thing that's most curious to me is that Disney has never expanded such a program beyond SAB. It seems like they would have a vested interest in 1) Making sure that guests who paid a premium price for a deluxe resort have the best experience possible, and 2) remove what is essentially an incentive to buy cheaper accommodations and just use the amenities of a better resort. Obviously Disney doesn't mind if people visit the restaurants, recreation services and gift shops of other resorts because those visits all lead directly to additional revenue. But when FW people are using the WL pool, Disney gains nothing. In fact they may lost WL guests who are dissatisfied with the overall experience.

My guess is that the wristbands were originally instituted at SAB to keep people from hopping to SAB rather than paying $35 per day for waterpark admission. So there something of a direct financial incentive there. But I would have no objections to expanding the program elsewhere.

[sheryl0521]

Instead of bands... why not gated entry that requires a room key to get in the pool area?
My thought exactly. The gated entry at Vero seemed to work very well. People walking down the beach didn't even try to venture towards the resort as it is prominently displayed that it is room key access only.

[JimMIA]

p.s. I like the removal of towels idea but how do you know that the person hasn't just went in for a bite to eat? Do you wait a while before removal?Aha! Now we're getting to the heart of the matter!

The answer is, you just know. Lounge saving towels will be neat. Also, usually someone who has stepped away for a minute will leave behind a bunch of stuff -- beach bag, kids, sandals...something. Pool lounge predators will leave nothing but a towel. The towels will also usually be on the primo lounges on the pool deck...which is the part I really like about taking them.

Carol -- I have only been confronted once, but I think there are two ways to respond. The proper response, seems to me, depends on the size and beligerance of the other party.

The non-confrontational way is to just say, "Oh gee...there wasn't any towel here when I sat down." What are they going to say to that?

Personally, what I did was tell the person I checked with the lifeguard and found out that the signs around the pool are indeed correct, and saving lounges is prohibited...so I sat down. I was prepared to tell her I'd be glad to move if the lifeguard told me to, but she just said, "Oh." and walked away. :)

[BeccaG]

I was very intrigued by this thread, because although I have not yet visited my "home" I already feel a strong sense of protection over it! :) However the poll answer responses confuse me. Are we asking about wristbands for the pool, or the entire resort? I have been to WDW before and you can pretty much walk onto any resort to visit the restaurants etc., so I have no idea how you would monitor this! So, I would not mind wristbands for the pool but as mentioned by others, am unsure of the practicality!

[tjkraz]

Personally I would take wristbands over gates. The wristbands would be a perfect solution IF administered properly. Gates, not so much. Nobody is ever going to slam the gate in the face of another family walking close behind--99% of people would politely hold the gate open without asking to see ID.

And I think anyone who is agressive enough to hop into a resort now will pick up on that quite quickly. With the type of traffic you see in and out of pool areas at the larger resorts, there's always someone coming or going. It's just a matter of timing.

Gates would also take something away from the appearance. I'm most familiar with SSR, OKW and BWV and the pool areas are all nicely integrated into the surrounding architecture. I couldn't imagine those resort areas tarnished by a 4' high wrought iron fence.

If they are building a substantial pool complex to AKV as has been reported, hopefully they'll have the foresight to design it in such a way that gates are included. But from an aesthetic standpoint, I wouldn't want to see any of the existing resorts retrofitted with unsightly fencing--particularly since I don't believe it would be an effective deterrent.

[TeresaNJ]

That depends... who's paying for it?

Instead of bands... why not gated entry that requires a room key to get in the pool area?


I think this is a great idea. This way, if you have a guest visiting, they can come in with you to the pool area, but still keep out the pool crashers. Although, when I'm staying at a resort other than DVC, sometimes I still like to go to VWL, get a drink, and read my book while sitting at a table by the lake. Would this keep me out?

[cdmickey]

I think I would be more amicable to gated (carded) entry as well. Any system, is only going to keep the honest people honest anyway. I think the best way, would be the most transparent way. Giving everyone the benefit of the doubt would be the way to go. Let's keep this fun place fun.

[tjkraz]

I think I would be more amicable to gated (carded) entry as well. Any system, is only going to keep the honest people honest anyway.

How would a dishonest person subvert a system that required presentation of valid room keys to obtain a wristband?

I think the best way, would be the most transparent way. Giving everyone the benefit of the doubt would be the way to go.

That's what we have now. I don't think it's any great mystery that people shouldn't be use a pool at a resort they aren't paying to stay at. Yet apparently the honor system isn't working. I don't see a keyed gate as having the tiniest bit of impact on the problem.

[Beca]

I don't see a keyed gate as having the tiniest bit of impact on the problem.

Although I am not opposed to gates, I don't see them curbing the problem nearly as well as wristbands, either. I know they have these in DL, and they do seem to have some effect (at least, they are a visual reminder that you should NOT be in that area unless you key gets you in), I honestly think (yes, I am a cynic here) that most pool crashers know what they are doing is wrong, and do it out of some warped sense of entitlement (i.e. "the rules don't apply to me"). I believe most would just follow people in and out of the gates. I do think having CM's check id's and give wristbands is the BEST deterrent...it just needs to be administered consistently and in an effective manner. When WDW changed the rules to no longer allow pool-hopping, they should've enforced this rule change then. Now, there are WDW guests who have been pool-hopping for YEARS and are not about to stop. Once again, WDW just needs to begin enforcing the rules they create. As far as how this affects DVC properties, we own DEEDS to a property where we were promised that pool-hopping is not allowed....DVC needs to make sure that promise is kept.

[doubletrouble_vb]

I think gates would prevent a "borderline" honest family from waiting for the gate to open and sneaking in. The sort of family who has always gone to a pool they werent registered for without a problem and chooses to think that its okay. In order to subvert the gate you'd have to embrace the fact that you are breaking the rules, some people are rule benders not rule breakers. However I think random enforcement on theme pools would serve to drive the message home over time without the expense of a permanent installation like gates operated by room keys.

I think I'd go with the gates for some of the quiet pools at the deluxe and DVC resorts and wrist bands for the theme pools. Key word is some.

The problem Disney has is that Orlando is experiencing zero unemployment. What would they have to pay in order to even have the floating team I have in mind let alone a dedicated staff for each hotel with a theme pool?

[tjkraz]

I think gates would prevent a "borderline" honest family from waiting for the gate to open and sneaking in. The sort of family who has always gone to a pool they werent registered for without a problem and chooses to think that its okay.

I still think it takes an awful lot of pre-meditated planning to pool hop. Most people don't just happen to leave their hotel room with swimsuits, sunblock, towels, etc.

And, more than anything, I hate what fences would do to the area from an aesthetic standpoint. At a resort like OKW the pool is pretty much out in the open so it might not be a big deal. But at SSR, the pool is completely surrounded by resort buildings (spa, restaurant, arcade, pool bar, etc.) I can't imagine trying to wedge a gated entrance in that space. :sad2:

[Chuck S]

I can't imagine them fencing the pool area, even at OKW, as the wheelchair & ECV access to the DVC Ferry boat is through that area. And tjkraz said it nicer, but it would be an eyesore.

[Anewman]

I wanted to vote no, but the reasoning listed in the poll does not reflect my reasoning. So I differed.

[Beca]

However I think random enforcement on theme pools would serve to drive the message home over time without the expense of a permanent installation like gates operated by room keys.

I think I'd go with the gates for some of the quiet pools at the deluxe and DVC resorts and wrist bands for the theme pools. Key word is some.

The problem Disney has is that Orlando is experiencing zero unemployment. What would they have to pay in order to even have the floating team I have in mind let alone a dedicated staff for each hotel with a theme pool?

The problem with random checks (as I see it), is that WDW/DVC would then be open to "random" checks. I mean, what is random? Is it something that happens once a month, once a week, once a day? If WDW came out and announced that they would be doing random checks at pools, I would think, "Great...something else that WDW says their going to enforce, but they are not." I think random might become so seldom that pool crashers would feel their chances of getting caught were low enough that it wouldn't happen to them. Then, we are right back where we started. I know if WDW said they were going to a "random" check plan at SAB, I'd be pretty miffed!!

As far as employment, college kids come real cheap to WDW. I know many kids would LOVE that job rather than some of the others they are assigned. As far as dues, BCV pretty much has someone there most of the time, and our dues are not substantially higher than other resorts. I agree that some resorts (mainly OKW) may not need it, just because of location. I really don't know if/when this will ever be an issue at SSR. I have not spent enough time there to know how many crashers from DTD they are getting. But, I think that VWL and BWV can certainly use some assistance.

Who knows WHAT they are going to do with AKV??!! I know that pool is not big enough to support another building, so they are really going to have to build a GREAT pool to take enough traffic away from Uzima. I suspect they may end up having to have some "assistance" there as well.

[jodifla]

For fences and gates and CMs around each pool, including the quiet ones, you are talking MAJOR money, which would come out of all our dues.

All this, for something that is not really a problem at most of the resorts.

[Beca]

For fences and gates and CMs around each pool, including the quiet ones, you are talking MAJOR money, which would come out of all our dues.

All this, for something that is not really a problem at most of the resorts.

That's why I think it is better to have CM's instead of gates. And, I am not sure about the "major money" part. If that were true, BCV would already have BY FAR the highest MF's, but it does not. I really don't think we are talking about that much money, here.

And, I think a lot of VWL owners would disagree about the "problem" part. It is definitely a problem to them, but WDW does not seem to bothered by this. It really doesn't seem fair.

[tjkraz]

Fencing would be a capital improvement and the cost to members could almost certainly be spread over a number of years. On an annual basis they would have to plan for maintenance (painting, lock replacement, etc.)

The cost to members of the entire thing would probably be as negligible as wristbands. A resort like Old Key West has over 7 million points in circulation. A dues increase of $.03 per point would generate almost $250,000 annually.

SSR is larger. VWL and BWV are smaller, but the resort would have to pick up a large portion of the tab due to the cash rooms present.

[keishashadow]

I still think it takes an awful lot of pre-meditated planning to pool hop. Most people don't just happen to leave their hotel room with swimsuits, sunblock, towels, etc.

And, more than anything, I hate what fences would do to the area from an aesthetic standpoint. At a resort like OKW the pool is pretty much out in the open so it might not be a big deal. But at SSR, the pool is completely surrounded by resort buildings (spa, restaurant, arcade, pool bar, etc.) I can't imagine trying to wedge a gated entrance in that space. :sad2:

In the parks we always see lots of men in swim trunks, think rides where you get wet. Increasingly more women too; whether a 2 pc. top in lieu of undergarmet or just wearing a tankini top. Not much of a stretch to imagine them parking @ overflow lot @ BW, going to the parks then returning for a quick dip in the pool (complimentary pool towels included); then heading out to where-ever. I've read several posts (quickly closed) where this strategy is given as a helpful hint.:confused3 Pool abuse threads do bring out strong responses.

[JimMIA]

In the parks we always see lots of men in swim trunks, think rides where you get wet. Increasingly more women too; whether a 2 pc. top in lieu of undergarmet or just wearing a tankini top. I've also seen people going thru security at Epcot with a bag full of bathing suits. Not sure why. :rolleyes1

[Cruelladeville]

(BTW, I don't care if there are 100 empty pool lounges, I always take one with a towel on it. pirate: They're better -- there's a reason why someone tried to save that particular pool lounge. Plus, you get an extra towel. :teeth: )

I am glad that I am not the only one who does this! :) I usually go around the pool, and take ALL the towels off the chaise lounges early in the day, so when they come back from the Parks, those people have no place to sit at the pool. :love:

[dumbo71]

I was very intrigued by this thread, because although I have not yet visited my "home" I already feel a strong sense of protection over it! :) However the poll answer responses confuse me. Are we asking about wristbands for the pool, or the entire resort? I have been to WDW before and you can pretty much walk onto any resort to visit the restaurants etc., so I have no idea how you would monitor this! So, I would not mind wristbands for the pool but as mentioned by others, am unsure of the practicality!


Others seem confused by this as well. All inclusive resorts and some others make guests wear wrist bands for there entire stay. It helps security know who is a registered guest of that property. It would also eliminate the need for CM's giving out wrist bands at the pool area. Lifeguards and the CM's working the pool area would simply have to look for wristbands and remove those without. This is what I mean by for the entire resort versus just the pool area.

Hope this helps.

[BeccaG]

Others seem confused by this as well. All inclusive resorts and some others make guests wear wrist bands for there entire stay. It helps security know who is a registered guest of that property. It would also eliminate the need for CM's giving out wrist bands at the pool area. Lifeguards and the CM's working the pool area would simply have to look for wristbands and remove those without. This is what I mean by for the entire resort versus just the pool area.

Hope this helps.

Well I think then I would vote "no" to wearing it around the whole resort, I would be OK with the pool, but having to wear them the whole time would make me feel like I was back at my elementary school summer camp! :rotfl: Plus, since Disney wants people to visit the restraunts etc. at other resorts, I can' t imagine them going that route either! If I was voting, I would have to vote "I don't care about the pool, but definitely NOT the entire resort." But since that is not an option I won't vote!

[Sammie]

To be honest --although I voted yes, but only in the pool area -- We really have not encountered this problem during our visits. Maybe it's because of staying mostly at OKW, or maybe it's the time of year we go, but we just haven't seen it. I'm sure it's a problem at SAB, though.

My other reservation with this idea is that Disney doesn't enforce their rules much anyway, so it's illogical to think they would enforce this one.

I agree, with Jim, I don't see Disney enforcing it and therefore it's a wasted effort.

I also agree with BeccaG, I am not wearing a wristband 24/7 while at Disney, to help them police the pool. Most resorts that require the wristband that are all inclusive, do it because alcohol is involved.

When the problem got out of hand at SAB Disney took steps to stop it, I am sure if it gets out of hand elsewhere they will address the situation.

[Machta]

You know, my kids love the wrist bands! They compete to see who can come home with the most--it's a cheap souvenier. My five-year-old looks at them as a badge of honor, since at our local rec center here at home they give them out only to little kids who have passed the swim test and can go anywhere in the pool area by themselves. She was so proud the day she passed the test!

But back to the topic--We've seem them enforce the wristbands at SAB very efficiently and gently. Once you get out, take the wristband off--what's the big deal?

[dumbo71]

When the problem got out of hand at SAB Disney took steps to stop it, I am sure if it gets out of hand elsewhere they will address the situation.


Ah, but here I disagree. The problem has been out of hand at WL for years and nothing has been done. There is, to a lesser degree, a problem at BWV as well. Swan and Dolphin guests have an easy walk to that pool as well as people visiting the BW area.

We can't rely on DVC to always make the right choices.

Thanks for the feedback, it seems clear to me from this poll that a majority favor wrist bands in some fashion.

[salmoneous]

Thanks for the feedback, it seems clear to me from this poll that a majority favor wrist bands in some fashion. First of all, I wouldn't take any poll with a handful of votes as being representative of the majority. But you absolutely can't take this poll seriously due to the biased wording of the choices. In particular, each of the "no" options is followed by negative follow-ups. Where was the choice for people who simply think, "no - I don't think it necessary right now"?

Now I'm not saying a majority don't want a wristband system - just that you can't conclude that based on this poll.

[paults]

how about a electronic zapper inserted in the wrist or anywhere. If you have one you can get in the pool BUT if you don't have one the water ZAPS YOU out of the resort never to be seen again. :eek: :teleport:

this would work :lmao: