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1. If I want to leave my baby at a Safe Baby Site, where can I go?

You may take your baby to any hospital, fire rescue station, or emergency medical technician (EMT) in the state of Texas.
Please remember that it is VERY important to give your baby to a person working at one of these facilities. That is the best way to care for your baby.
People working at these facilities usually have some form of visible identification.
Tell the person that you want to leave your baby at the Safe Baby Site.

2. How long can I wait before I take my baby?

You can take your baby, up to 60 days old.

3. Why must the baby be 60 days old or less?

The intent of Baby Moses law is to provide a responsible alternative to desperate mothers.
The first days of a newborns life are the most critical, and most likely the time that immediate medical attention is required.

4. What will they ask me?

The people at the Safe Baby Site where you choose to leave your baby may provide you with a voluntary form to fill out that is used to provide medical information for your child. This is NOT an attempt to try to find out who you are. This information will be put in your baby’s records, and may help answer health questions in the future.
The Safe Baby Site may offer to give you some referrals and help lines that you may want to call in the future if you want to speak with someone about what you have been through.
Voluntary Health Form

5. Is it true that the police will not be called?

The police will not be called if your unharmed baby (60 days old or less) is brought to a hospital, fire rescue station or EMS station and given to a person who works there.
If you leave your unharmed baby at a hospital, fire station or with an EMT, you will not be prosecuted for abandonment or neglect.

6. What happens to my baby?

If you leave your baby at a fire station or with and EMT, they will give the baby immediate medical care and then transport the baby to the closest appropriate hospital.
The hospital will take care of any additional medical needs that your baby may have.
The Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (TDPRS) will then take custody of your child.
After the legal responsibilities are fulfilled by TDPRS, your baby will be placed with caring family.

7. I have other questions, Where do I look for information?

www.babymosesdallas.org
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services

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1. Do I need a permit to put a fence?

Yes. A permit is required to construct a new fence or when replacing more than 50 percent of a fence. An application for permit and $25 permit fee must be submitted to the Building Inspections Department prior to construction.

2. Whom do I contact to file a complaint about a restaurant?

You can call Perin Warren at 972.780.8573.

3. Do I need a permit to build a storage building?

Yes, a permit is required. Permit Process

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1. Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a firefighter?

Well, now's your chance!
Come learn how your Cedar Hill Fire Department prepares for life-threatening emergencies and learn about all the many services our trained emergency professionals provide to the citizens of Cedar Hill.

2. Why a Citizens Fire Academy?

This program is designed for people who have a genuine desire to learn about the daily life of firefighters, who want to increase fire and life safety awareness, and who wish to increase the awareness of the services provided by the Cedar Hill Fire Department.

3. Who can attend?

Anyone who is at least 18 years old, who lives or works in Cedar Hill, and has never been arrested or charged with any crime. Selection of students will be made by application

4. Do I get to ride in a fire truck?

Yes, during the 3rd week of class you will be able to sign up to ride-out with on-duty personnel to emergency and non-emergency calls. If you pick a good time slot you will even get a chance to sample some cooking, Firefighter style. Remember that all students, while on calls, will be observing ONLY.

5. How much does the course cost?

There is no charge to participants. All materials, along with CFA Polo , are provided.

6. Do you just sit in class for 10 weeks?

NO, there will be some materials that will be discussed in the classroom; however there will be plenty of demonstrations and hands-on activities in which you will be encouraged to participate outside the classroom.

7. Who are the instructors?

A variety of instructors are used from the Firefighters on shift all the way up to the Fire Chief.

8. What happens upon completion?

Graduates are encouraged to join the Alumni Association, and participate in meetings that inform you of upcoming events. Members will work with the CHFD on local civic events and assist with various programs.

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1. Can I park my vehicle on the grass?

No, vehicles must be parked on an improved surface, concrete, in the front or side yard.

2. Can you make my neighbor mow their grass?

Yes, City Ordinance requires that weeds and grass be maintained at a height not exceeding twelve (12) inches.

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1. Who establishes the taxable value of my property?

The taxable value of a property is determined by each county’s appraisal district. Dallas Central Appraisal District appraises property located in Dallas County and Ellis Central Appraisal District appraises property located in Ellis County.

The contact information for Dallas Central Appraisal District:
Website:
www.dallascad.ord

Mailing Address:
Dallas Central Appraisal District
2949 North Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, TX 75247

Email and Telephone:
Email for all General and Business Personal Property Inquiries: jordanc@dcad.ord
Email for all Real Property Ownership, Exemption and Change of Mailing Address Inquiries: pre@dcad.org
Customer Service: (214)631-0910
Main Switchboard: (214) 631-0520

The contact information for Ellis Central Appraisal District:

Website:
www.elliscad.ord

Mailing Address:
Ellis Central Appraisal District
P.O. Box 878
400 Ferris Avenue
Waxahachie, TX 75165

Email and Telephone:
ecad@elliscad.com
(972) 937-3552
1-866-348-3552

2. Where can I pay my taxes?

The City of Cedar Hill contracts with the Dallas County Tax Office to bill and collect City taxes for properties located in both Dallas and Ellis counties. Checks should be made payable to David Childs, Dallas County Assessor-Collector and sent to the following address:
Dallas County Tax Office
P.O. Box 139066
Dallas, Texas 75313-9066
The County Tax Office physical address :
2949 North Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, Texas 75247

Dallas County has several Branch Offices where payments are accepted.
Their hours of operation are from 7:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday,
except for Holidays.

Branch Locations:
Duncanville 100 E. Wheatland Rd. 75116
Farmers Branch 2436 Valley View Ln. 75234
Garland 675 W. Walnut 75040
Grand Prairie 525 W. Hwy. 303 75050
Irving 530 N. O’Connor Rd. 75060
Mesquite 210 W. Grubb 75149
North Dallas 10056 Marsh Ln. 75229
Oak Cliff 408 S. Beckley 75203
Richardson 516 Twilight Trail 75080

3. How are my property taxes calculated?

The market and taxable values of a property are determined by the Dallas and Ellis Central Appraisal Districts. They provide each taxing entity (cities, school districts, the county and special districts) a certified appraisal roll. Each taxing entity utilizes the certified appraisal roll to determine the tax rate required to meet their budgetary needs. Each taxing entity adopts a tax rate following the procedures mandated by the Truth-in-Taxation laws applicable to the entity. These tax rates are provided to the Dallas County Tax Office for billing and collection. The Dallas County Tax Office issues a consolidated bill for the taxes due for Dallas County properties and an individual bill for the City of Cedar Hill for Ellis County properties.

4. How can I obtain a copy of the City of Cedar Hill budget?

Copies of the City of Cedar Hill budget can be obtained online (in .pdf format). Start at the home page, click on the City Services menu and select Finance\Budget tabs.

Printed copies of the budget are available for the public to view at the Lula B. Wylie Library.

Printed copies may also be purchased by calling the Budget Analyst at 972.291.5100 ext. 1064.

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1. Are you hiring firefighters? What are the requirements to become a Firefighter?

We hire on an 'as needed' basis. In the newest round of testing we require:
1) Current National Registered Paramedic or Texas State Certified Paramedic

OR

2) Certified, Certifiable Firefighter through the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Hiring mailing list

2. How do I get an ambulance call report?

EMS Chief Kevin Cunningham is the designated contact for EMS records. You can reach him Monday - Friday from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm at 972.291.1011.

3. Can I burn brush or trash in Cedar Hill?

The Cedar Hill City Council passed Ordinance 2002-127 on November 12, 2002, effective immediately, which prohibits all outdoor open burning except for approved TNRCC commercial trench sites. Commercial trench sites approved by TNRCC must also have a permit issued by the Fire Marshall's Office, which may include further restrictions.

This does not prohibit campfires in an approved fire-ring (state park), barbeque grills, masonry patio grills, chimeras, etc.

4. Why is a fire engine sent when I call for an ambulance?

A fire engine is automatically sent as a first responder when a MICU is assigned to a Heart Attack, Unconscious Person, or a Major Accident type call. Additionally, if the assigned MICU is greater than 6 minutes away, then an engine will be assigned as a first responder. The engine personnel are all Paramedics and all of the engines have full Advanced Life Support capability and they will stay until the arrival of the MICU.

5. How can I get a copy of a Fire Report?

Fire reports may be obtained from the Fire Investigation Division. They can be reached Monday- Friday 08:00-05:00 at 972-291-1011

6. How do I request a tour of a fire station?

To request a tour of a fire station or to schedule a fire engine to visit your site, call 972-291-1011. Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tour Request Form

7. Does the Cedar Hill Fire Department have smoke alarms?

Smoke alarms are available to the public free of charge. Fire personnel will install smoke alarms in the residences of people that lack this protection. Please call 972-291-1011 for further information. Smoke Detector Page

8. What is the best kind of fire extinguisher for my house?

A multi-purpose fire extinguisher is best for the home. Look for the rating to be at least 2A:10B:C on the label. This extinguisher can be used on any type of fire commonly found in the home. It will often be labeled A-B-C.

9. Can I get my blood pressure checked at the fire station?

Yes. We offer this service free at all fire stations in Cedar Hill
Station 211: 1212 W. Belt Line Rd
Station 212: 1098 S. Clark
Station 213: 1430 High Pointe
Station 214: 1505 Lake Ridge

10. How can I relay a compliment concerning Fire Department Service?

For compliments concerning the Cedar Hill Fire Department can be recieved Monday through Friday, between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM or write to 1212 W. Belt Line Rd Cedar Hill TX 75104
Emergency Medical Services, contact Division Chief Kevin Cunningham, 972-291-5100 # 2333
Fire Suppression and Operations, Contact Chief John Ballard, 972-291-5199 # 2331
Fire Marshal: Contact Fire Marshal Reginald J. Alexander. 972-291-5100 # 2316

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1. What fire code is the City currently under?

Uniform Fire Code 2003 Cedar Hill Municipal Code

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1. What positions are currently available?

Current employment opportunities are available online. Access them by clicking on the following link. Current Job Listings

2. What is the hiring process?

After an online application is submitted, it is reviewed to ensure minimum job qualifications are met and then forwarded to the hiring manager. Unfortunately, due to the large volume of applications received, not all qualified candidates will receive an interview. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring manager. Please allow at least 4 weeks for this process to be completed. Online Application

3. What type of benefits does the City offer?

Please explore the below link. More...

4. Where do I send my application and/or resume for a job posting?

Only online applications will be considered. Resumes may be submitted as a supplement to the online application but will not replace the online application. To be considered complete, online applications must be filled out thoroughly. Simply attaching a resume without completing the online application or noting "see resume" on the online application is not acceptable. Online Application

5. Can I apply online?

Yes. To be considered for an open position, you must apply online. Paper applications and hard copies of resumes are no longer accepted. To apply online.

6. How do I apply for a job?

Each job opportunity requires a separate City of Cedar Hill application to be submitted online. More...

7. How will I know the status of my application?

You will receive an email to confirm that your application was received. Once the position closes, the hiring manager will review all applications and call candidates selected for interviews. Once a position has been filled, you will receive an email. Please wait at least four weeks before calling to check on your application status. After that time, you may contact the Human Resources office at 972-291-5100 ext. 1050. More...

8. What is the minimum age to work at the City?

The minimum age to work at the City is 18, if the position involves use of hazardous equipment or chemicals. There are a limited number of positions available at the City's pool and Recreation Center during the summer months that have a minimum age requirement of 16.

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1. Can I access the Internet on library computers?

Yes, the library currently has public-use computers. A one-day guest pass is available to adults who do not have a library card.

The computers are reserved on a first-come, first served basis and can be used in one-hour increments. Please call 972-291-7323 if you have questions.

2. How do I get a library card?

Any Texas resident may have a library card free of charge (with a Texas driver's license and proof of address which includes a rental or lease agreement, voter's registration card, car insurance, and/or utility bill, etc). Library cards are available for a fee to individuals who live outside the state of Texas.

You must have a card to check out physical materials. Fees are $20 for one year. Virtual library cards are available to anyone. Just fill out the registration form on our City Hill Library website. You will be emailed a barcode to access our online resources, such as eBooks and streaming video.

3. What if the library doesn’t have the book(s) I need?

Books and materials not owned by the Zula B. Wylie Library may be available through the Interlibrary Loan process. This service is available at the Reference Desk. Interlibrary Loan is not an instant service and can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks (on average) to receive an item from another library.

When the item you requested is received, you will be notified and have 3 days to pick up the item. There is a $1.25 postage fee applied to each item that you request. Cedar Hill residents with a library card in good standing can be issued a TexShare card to check out books at other libraries.

For more information, please contact Leticia Bolin at 972-291-7323 or email Leticia Bolin.

4. Can I have someone paged who is in the library?

We do not have a public address system and in order to respect the privacy of patrons we cannot track down a person.

5. Where is the Zula B. Wylie Public Library?

You will find us at:
225 Cedar Street
Cedar Hill, Texas 75104

6. What is the Library's phone number?

Our main number is 972-291-7323, ext. 1300 will get you to a live person.

7. Does the Library have story times for children?

Yes. Please check our Library Calendar on our website for details.

• Baby Rhyme Time
  • Mondays
  • 10:30 a.m.
  • Ages birth to 2
• Preschool Storytime
  • Wednesdays
  • 10:30 a.m.
  • Ages 3 to 6
• Toddler Storytime
  • Fridays
  • 10:30 a.m.
  • Ages 18 months to 3 years

8. I lost my library card. What should I do?

A lost Library Card should be reported immediately. There is a $2 fee to replace your lost card.

9. What is my barcode and my password?

Your barcode is the 14 digit number on the back of your library card (no spaces between digits). Your Personal Identification Number (PIN) is usually the last four digits of your phone number unless you registered online providing your own PIN or you authorized a library employee to assign a number for you.

10. If I don't receive a reminder email about my overdue items, do I still have to pay fines?

The email is a courtesy provided by the Library. This notice is subject to internet outages. You are not relieved of your obligation to return materials and pay your fines.

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1. How do I report a streetlight outage?

Report streetlight outages online or call toll-free 1.888.313.4747.

2. Is there a homeowners association for my subdivision?

Many but not all subdivisions have homeowners associations. To find out if there is an association in your neighborhood call 972.291.5100 ext. 1094 or go to www.cedarhilltx.com/MY NEIGHBORHOOD online. Link to MY NEIGHBORHOOD online

3. Do I need to notify the city if I am having a garage sale?

Garage Sale registration is free however there are regulations regarding the number of sales per year, signs, and hours of operation. There are several convenient ways to register your sale:

• You may register your sale online by completing the registration form at
www.cedarhilltx.com/garagesaleregistration
• Obtain a registration in person at the Government Center, 285 Uptown Blvd,
at the Code Enforcement Department
• Call the Code Enforcement Department at 972.291.5100 ext. 1090.

Everyone that registers will have their sale listed on the City's website. Registration must be complete by noon on Thursday prior to your scheduled date to have your sale listed on the website. Other residents will be able to view and print the list of sales. Register your sale today and get free advertising on the City's website!

4. Whom do I contact about mortgage fraud?

If you believe that you might be a victim of mortgage fraud in the State of Texas, contact the Public Information & Assistance number of the Texas Attorney General's office toll-free at 1.800.252.8011, or visit online www.oag.state.tx.us/ for information on the Texas Residential Mortgage Fraud Task Force. Texas Residential Mortgage Fraud Task Force

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1. What are park hours?

Cedar Hill currently has 32 park properties varying from Community Parks, Neighborhood Parks to "Other Parks" which include Special Purpose Parks and Greenbelts and Wildlife Corridors. Parks are open daily from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm. No alcoholic beverages are allowed and reservations are required for all organized activities.

2. How do I register for Adult Softball, Adult Kickball and Adult Volleyball?

Go to the following web page:

Find all of the info. here

3. Who mows the medians?

In most cases the Parks and Recreation Department, with the exception of the High Pointe subdivision which is maintained by the High Pointe Public Improvement District (PID) and the Lake Ridge subdivision which is maintained by Bluegreen Southwest.

High Pointe

4. What is the phone number to the Heritage House?

The Heritage House is privately owned, but available for city use and residents of Cedar Hill. It is available for rental. Please call 469-454-4276 or visit

their website for more information.

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1. How can I get a copy of an accident report?

Accident reports may be purchased online or an open records request may be submitted. See the link below for further details. More information...

2. How do I get an alarm permit?

Applications are available on this site and in the lobby of the main police station. Submit the completed application with payment either by mail or in person at the main police station. More information....

3. How can I get a copy of a police report?

The Cedar Hill Police Records Division is responsible for processing open records requests for police records. We comply with Texas laws regarding the release of information. See our full information regarding open records requests using the following link and scroll down. More information

4. Does the police department offer an opportunity for citizens to ride along with an officer?

Yes. After application is made and approved a time can be scheduled to ride along with an officer. Please see our webpage about this with links to the application form. More information

5. I have questions about red light cameras?

See our frequently asked questions document. Go to document

6. Where do I get fingerprinted for a Concealed Handgun License?

The Texas Department of Public Safety requires that concealed handgun license applicants or renewals get fingerprinted by a company called MorphoTrust USA that provides electronic submission. For information regarding this and a link to the fingerprinting locations More information

7. Can I get fingerprinted at the Police Department?

The Police Department can fingerprint for purposes other than concealed handgun licenses. The hours are Tuesday - Thursday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The charge $10.00 per card.

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1. Can the government take my land away?

As a landowner you have very specific rights regarding your property. Please visit the Public Works Engineering page to view the Texas Landowners Bill of Rights or visit the Texas Attorney General's website. Attorney General Website

2. How do I report a pothole?

You can submit a work request online using the Access Cedar Hill link from the City's home page or email the information to pw@cedarhilltx.com.

You can also call 972.291.5126 ext. 2806 with complete information about the location and size of the pothole.

If it is an after-hours emergency, please call 972.780.6643 and explain the nature of the problem.

3. Where can I dump my cooking grease?

The City has a location at the Service Center that you can take all of your cooking grease to be disposed of. Bring the grease, in any type of container, and dispose of it in an evironmentally-friendly and safe manner. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, check with the office for instructions.
Placing grease down your drain can cause problems with the sewer system and result in sewer back-ups and/or costly repairs.

The service center is located at:
1554 S. Clark Rd. (just past Dot Thomas Park)

4. How can I request repairs to my street?

You can submit a work request online using the Access Cedar Hill link from the City's home page or email the information to pw@cedarhilltx.com.

You can also call 972.291.5126 ext. 2806 with complete information.

If it is an after-hours emergency, please call 972.780.6643 and explain the nature of the problem.

5. Why are there flags/markings near my yard or at my curb?

Colored flags and markings in the street typically indicate that a line locate has been done. Line locates are used to identify water lines or other utility lines prior to work being done in that area. These types of markings in a residential area are usually an indicator that a cable or phone company will be doing some work in that area. Anyone working in the City's ROW (right-of-way) is required to have a ROW Permit on file.

If you have any concerns regarding work being done near your residence please feel free to contact us so that we may address those concerns with the appropriate contractors.

You can call Public Works at 972-291-5126 ext. 2853 or email the information to pw@cedarhilltx.com.

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1. Is there a distinction between resident and non-resident?

There is no distinction between resident and non-resident. Whether you live in Cedar Hill or outside of the City, your membership rates are the same.

2. Can we have a DJ in the room we rented for our party?

You may have a DJ, live band or amplified music only if you rent the entire 5400 sq. ft. space.
The Recreation Center offers AV equipment that allows you to connect your PC, play CDs, radio or plug in your iPod or MP3 player. There is no charge for the use of this equipment.

3. What are the rules regarding Youth/Teen events?

All events with 50 or more youth/teens(ages 12 through & including 21) in attendance will be required to have on-site Cedar Hill Police Department officers (one per 50 youth), reserved through the Cedar Hill Recreation Center. All fees must be paid at least 30 days prior to the event to insure privileges.
It is highly recommended that all events with youth/teen ages 21 and under as the primary attendees should have chaperones of 1 for every 10 youth.

4. What about an indoor pool?

Indoor aquatic facilities will be included in a second phase at a later date.

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1. Why should my home have smoke alarms?

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are a very important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal -- so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best safety devices you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home.

2. Where do I put them?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, installing your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide you with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. More...

3. Where would I get smoke alarms?

Many hardware, home supply, or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. If you are unsure where to buy one in your community, call your local fire department (on a nonemergency telephone number) and they will provide you with some suggestions. Cedar Hill Fire Department offer smoke alarms for no cost. Free Smoke Detector request form

4. Are smoke alarms hard to install?

No.
1. If your smoke alarms are hard wired, that is wired into the electrical system, you will need to have a qualified electrician do the initial installation or install replacements.
2. For battery-powered smoke alarms, all you will need for installation is a screw driver.

5. My smoke detector is "chirping." What is that?

If your smoke alarm starts making a "chirping" noise, replace the batteries and reset it.

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1. I am unsure which swimming lesson level to sign my child up for. How do I decide?

If you still are unsure, please call the Recreation Coordinator at 972-291-5100 ext. 1520, or 972-291-5318 or come to Crawford Park Pool and an instructor will be willing to help you. For more information please view the Swimming Lesson Placement Form.

2. I was told that my child must repeat a swim lesson level. Why didn't my child pass?

Please do not be discouraged if your child is asked to repeat a swim lesson level. Our instructors must carefully evaluate whether it is safe for your child to proceed to the next level. In many cases, a child is asked to repeat a level in order to refine and develop the skills that have already been taught.

3. What is deep water?

We consider deep water chest deep. Our instructors will work with you if you have fears of deep water.

4. How are private lessons scheduled?

The first step in the process is completing a Private Swim Lesson Request Form and paying for your selected package. Once you have filled out the form and submitted payment, the form will be given to the Recreation Coordinator. The Aquatics team then posts the form for an available instructor to contact you to set up dates and times for your lesson(s). The Aquatics team will contact you within 5 to 10 business days.

5. Do you provide another participant for the semi-private lessons?

No, you must already have another participant (friend or family member) arranged to register with you for a semi-private lesson. Lesson cost is per person.

6. What happens if I sign up and pay for private lessons and no one calls me?

We strive to set up lessons within 5-10 business days, however during certain times of summer it may take a few extra days. Our goal is to have an instructor contact you as soon as possible.

7. What times and days are available for private lessons?

Lessons can be taught during open swim hours. Scheduling will be arranged between the instructor and participant.

8. Why Learn to Swim?

Swimming is a sport people can start at any age, and can do for life, there is even a category for people who want to race in events over the age of 100! Plus, knowing how to swim opens up a whole range of other sports, just imagine you could don a snorkel and swim with fish, or even complete a scuba diving course. You could join a canoeing or sailing club or even take your swimming to the next level and enter competitions!

9. Can I re-enter the facility if I leave?

Yes, please see the cashier for a hand stamp. Hand stamps are only valid for the day you purchased your daily fee. You will need to pay admission again or show a valid pool pass for any additional days you wish to visit.

10. What are the requirements for children who are not toilet trained?

Cedar Hill Parks and Recreation Aquatics Department requires all children who are not toilet trained to wear a swim diaper. When regular diapers become immersed in water they expel into the water the gel used to absorb urine and fecal matter. A swim diaper is designed not to disintegrate while swimming like a regular diaper. It is recommended to combine a swim diaper with a swimsuit. The fecal matter is contained and is less likely to contaminate the swimming pool water.

11. What type of swimming attire should I wear?

Swim suits only, please. The following are NOT appropriate swim attire: sports bras, sports shorts, basketball shorts, cut off jeans, underwear, thong bikinis or suits that are deemed too revealing for a family environment because of transparency, cut or tightness of fit. It is also recommended that small children wear thermal swim suits or swim suits that cover more body area. Since the body mass is drastically different than adults or older, children heat loss is greater and they are more susceptible to harmful affects of UV rays. Staff suggests that your child wear a hat to prevent heat loss and shade them from harmful UV rays. Before and after your child swims, it is recommended that you keep them warm with a hooded terry cloth robe or towel.

12. What are the lap swimming guidelines?

Lap swimmers are expected to circle swim when there are more than 2 swimmers per lane. Circle swimming is defined as swimming in a lane in a standard counter-clockwise direction, up the right side and back down the left. For the safety and comfort of the lap swimmers, lap swimming is available to ages 18 and older.

13. I would like to participate in a swim team, do you have one?

Yes, the team swims during the summer, with registration beginning in April. Throughout the summer there are optional swim meets every Saturday (about 30 minutes away), and swimmers have a chance to compete at the TAAF Games of Texas by qualifying at the regional swim meet.

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1. What are West Nile virus, West Nile fever, and West Nile encephalitis?

West Nile virus is a virus commonly found in Africa , West Asia , and the Middle East . It is closely related to St. Louis encephalitis virus found in the United States . The virus can infect humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses and some other mammals.

West Nile fever is a case of mild disease in people, characterized by flu like symptoms. West Nile fever typically lasts only a few days and does not appear to cause any long-term health effects.

More severe disease due to a person being infected with this virus can be West Nile encephalitis, West Nile meningitis, or West Nile meningoencephalitis. Encephalitis refers to an inflammation of the brain, meningitis is an inflammation of the membrane around the brain and the spinal cord, and meningoencephalitis refers to inflammation of the brain and the membrane surrounding it.

2. What Are the Symptoms of West Nile Virus

Serious Symptoms in a Few People. About one in 150 people infected with WNV will develop severe illness. The severe symptoms can include high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis. These symptoms may last several weeks, and neurological effects may be permanent.

Milder Symptoms in Some People. Up to 20 percent of the people who become infected have symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Symptoms can last for as short as a few days, though even healthy people have become sick for several weeks.

No Symptoms in Most People. Approximately 80 percent of people (about 4 out of 5) who are infected with WNV will not show any symptoms at all.

3. How is West Nile Spread?

Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds, which may circulate the virus in their blood for a few days. Infected mosquitoes can then transmit West Nile virus to humans and animals while biting to take blood. The virus is located in the mosquito's salivary glands. During blood feeding, the virus may be injected into the animal or human, where it may multiply, possibly causing illness

4. If I live in an area where birds or mosquitoes with West Nile virus have been reported and a mosquito bites me, am I likely to get sick?

No. Even in areas where the virus is circulating, very few mosquitoes are infected with the virus. Even if the mosquito is infected, less than 1% of people who get bitten and become infected will get severely ill. The chances you will become severely ill from any one mosquito bite are extremely small.

5. What can I do to help prevent the spread?

Get rid of all standing water.
·Empty, remove, cover or turn upside down any receptacle/container that will hold standing water (bottles, cans, tires, buckets, flower pots, etc.).
·Change water in pet dishes, wading pools, and bird baths several times a week.
·Cover trash containers so they will not collect water.

Repair any leaking plumbing and outside faucets

6. Following the 'four Ds' can help beat mosquito bites

According to the Dallas Department of Health and Human Resources, preventing mosquito bites is the best way to avoid getting the West Nile virus. Remember the four Ds: Drain, Dusk/Dawn, Dress and DEET

1.Drain standing water in your yard and neighborhood. Standing water can be found in swimming pools that are not kept clean, ponds, pet water dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys and clogged rain gutters.

2.Dusk and dawn are the times of day you should stay indoors when mosquitoes are most active.

3.Dress in long-sleeved shirts and wear pants when you are outside. Spray thin clothing with insect repellent.

4.DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is an ingredient to look for in insect repellent.

7. Is West Nile Virus contagious?

No. West Nile is not spread through contact from person to person or from animal to person.

8. What is the treatment for West Nile Virus?

There is no specific treatment for WNV infection. Patients receive supportive medical care and rehabilitation if needed.