Recreation Facility Safety Guidelines

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We value the safety and security of visitors and staff.

Please respect people and property at City-operated facilities, and report any contraventions or suspicious activity.

Respect for People and Property

Emergencies

If someone needs your help, please assist if it is safe to do so.
If you witness a dangerous situation or an emergency, notify a staff member immediately.
In the event of a major emergency, an alarm may be sounded and the area evacuated. Please follow staff direction and assist if asked.
Be prepared to provide a statement if you were a witness. It will help staff and emergency responders deal with the situation, and prevent it from happening in the future.
First aid assistance is always available.

Age Access Guide

What are the minimum age requirements for swimming alone? Using the fitness centre? Skating? Taking a fitness class?

See the Age Access Guide.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is acceptable in all City of Edmonton recreation facilities. Women may breastfeed where they feel most comfortable. If a woman wishes to breastfeed in private, staff will assist her in finding space.

Use of Recording Devices, Cameras, Camera-Equipped Cell Phones, and PDAs

The use of recording devices (including but not limited to cell phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), cameras, laptops and tablets) are permitted in City of Edmonton facilities except for specific locations and circumstances.

Patrons are encouraged to ask a staff member for permission before taking any photos or videos in a City of Edmonton recreation facility. Respect for people’s privacy is a priority.

When using a recording device in City of Edmonton recreation facilities, only record people that you are acquainted with to respect the privacy of others.

If you are suspicious that someone is using recording devices inappropriately in City of Edmonton recreation facilities, please notify staff immediately.

Recording devices are not permitted in/at:

Change Rooms/Washrooms/Locker Rooms/Dressing Rooms: Please turn off and store your personal recording devices in these private areas. Taking pictures within change rooms or washrooms is illegal. This also extends to private areas designated for staff.
Cash Counters/Front Desks: For security reasons and to protect the personal information of patrons, the use of recording devices in cash-handling areas is prohibited.
Medical Emergencies: To protect the privacy of patrons and staff, the use of recording devices during a First Aid event or a medical emergency is prohibited.

Recording devices are permitted in/at:

Aquatic Centres: Viewing areas, pool deck, and amenities
Arenas: Viewing areas, stands, and on the ice
Common Areas: Atriums, lobbies, multi-purpose rooms, and public office areas
Fieldhouses
Fitness Centres
Gymnasiums

Use of recording devices only permitted with staff approval:

Underwater Recording in Aquatic Centres: Permission to use recording devices underwater must come from an aquatic staff member.
City of Edmonton Staff and Volunteers: Recording of staff and volunteers in any public spaces, sites, or work areas is only permitted with permission.

Staff may intervene if the use of recording devices is affecting the safety, enjoyment, or experience of others.

Recreation Centre and Arena Guidelines

These guidelines apply at all City of Edmonton recreation facilities. Some facilities may have more specific rules for their amenities.

When You Arrive

You'll need to pay or scan your pass at the front desk and if you have questions ask the cashier or request an orientation to the facility.
Persons under the influence of intoxicants will not be allowed into the facility. Consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs on the premises is not permitted.
Please do not visit the facility if you are suffering from a cold, flu, bacterial or viral infection, communicable disease or severe skin condition.
Alert staff if you have any medical problems such as a heart condition, epilepsy, and so on.
Animals are not allowed inside the building, unless they are a Certified Assistive Animal, or they are participating in a designated pet therapy program.
No skateboarding, in-line skating or cycling allowed within the facility.
Smoking is not permitted in any City of Edmonton building.
Use of PDAs, cameras and other recording devices is restricted in City of Edmonton Recreation Facilities. With staff permission, these devices are permitted for taking photos in public areas such as the pool, lobby, arena, gymnasium, courts, class rooms, and party rooms. You must also have the permission of those who may be recognizable in the photos.

Change Rooms and Washrooms

Finish eating and drinking before you enter the change room. Please use the garbage bins provided.
No glass containers are allowed in the change rooms.
Remove shoes before entering the change rooms.
No spitting.
Physical exercise can create body odour that can be offensive to others. Similarly, excessive amounts of scented hygiene products, perfumes or colognes can trigger allergies in other patrons. Please be considerate of other users when practicing your personal hygiene.
Protect your belongings by securing them in a locker. Small lockers are available in the lobby of facilities for your wallet, keys or jewellery. We recommend that you do not bring any valuables into the facility.
Please turn off and store cell phones, PDAs, cameras, and other recording devices when using change rooms or washrooms. Taking pictures within change rooms or washrooms is against the law.

Fitness Area and Tracks

Staff reserve the right, at their sole discretion to assess and evaluate adherence to guidelines.

A proof of payment wristband is required and can be purchased at the front desk.
The following age guidelines apply to the fitness centre and track:
- Children aged 0-5 are not permitted on the track, unless in a stroller, and are not permitted in the fitness centre.
- Children aged 6-11 are permitted on the track if they are actively supervised by an individual aged 16 or older and are not permitted in the fitness centre.
- Youth aged 12-15 are permitted to use the track if they are actively supervised by an individual 16 yrs or older.
- Youth aged 12-15 are permitted on the track and in the fitness centre independently only after having completed the Youth in Action program.
- Strollers are only permitted on the track and not permitted in the fitness centre, fitness nooks and stretching areas.
All clothing must be:
- Clean and free of odours that may impact the experience of other users.
- Free of inappropriate/offensive graphics or language.
- Free of attachments such as buckles/velcro/snaps that might damage equipment.
- Appropriate to the fitness/recreation environment/amenity being used, and not be overly revealing (for example, midriff tee shirts/tank tops and sports bras designed for fitness use are permitted).
- Clean and dry fitness appropriate shoes which fully enclose the foot are required; bare feet, open toed shoes, sport sandals, socks are not permitted.
These are scent free environments.
Return equipment to the original storage location after use.
Use of equipment is on a first-come, first-served basis, however, please show courtesy to other users by allowing others to "work in" while you are resting.
Fitness equipment cannot be reserved.
Collars must be used to hold weight plates in place on bars.
Use the equipment as it was designed; do not attach any chains, ropes, or other items as they can overload and damage the equipment, and create a safety hazard for other users.
Wipe down equipment after use using the wipes provided.
Chalk is permitted; excess chalk is to be cleaned up immediately following use.
Immediately report any vandalism or faulty equipment to facility staff.
Do not bring bags, jackets and other personal items into the fitness centre or track as they can pose a safety hazard for other users; please use lockers provided.
Equipment specific bags (such as weightlifting accessories) are permitted at staff discretion.

Gymnasium and Fieldhouse Guidelines

Staff reserve the right, at their sole discretion to assess and evaluate adherance to guidelines.

A proof of payment wristband is required and can be purchased at the front desk.
Children under 8 years must be actively supervised by a responsible person aged 13+.
All clothing must be:
- Clean and free of odours that may impact the experience of other users.
- Free of inappropriate/offensive graphics or language.
- Free of attachments such as buckles/velcro/snaps that might damage equipment.
- Appropriate to the fitness/recreation environment/amenity being used, and not be overly revealing (for example, midriff tee shirts/tank tops and sports bras designed for fitness use are permitted).
- Clean and dry fitness appropriate shoes which fully enclose the foot are required; bare feet, open-toed shoes, sport sandals, socks are not permitted.
To borrow equipment see member experience or customer service staff (front counter).
Equipment cannot be removed from the facility and must be returned to the staff.
Any grossly damaged equipment, other than normal wear, may result in the patron losing equipment borrowing privileges.
Space is available on a first come, first serve basis. If patrons are waiting to play an activity staff can initiate a time limit on play to ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate.
Organized play (games) is permitted provided it does not dominate the space and all users are welcome to participate.
No team practices or group training.
Permitted activities must follow the approved set-up unless otherwise approved by facility staff.
Good sportsmanship is expected for all activities and abusive behavior will not be tolerated at any time.
Do not bring bags, jackets and other personal items into the gymnasium as they can pose a safety hazard for other users; please use lockers provided.
Sport specific bags (such as racquet bags) are permitted at staff discretion.

Thank you for your cooperation. Enjoy!

Arena Guidelines

Finish eating and drinking before you enter the change room.
Use the garbage bins provided.
Glass containers are not allowed in the change rooms or other arena areas.
Food or beverages are not allowed on the ice at any time.
No spitting.
Do not leave sports bags or equipment unattended.
Protect your belongings by securing them in a locker. Small lockers are available in the lobby of facilities for your wallet, keys or jewellery. We recommend that you do not bring any valuables into the facility.
If your group is using a change room, please lock the door when you leave for the ice surface, and keep the key with you at all times. Keys to change rooms are available from the arena attendant.
Torches, heat guns and portable skate sharpeners are not allowed in the facility.
If you are using a saw to shorten a hockey stick, please avoid damaging table, bench or garbage bin that you may be sawing over.
If the arena attendant is cleaning the ice with the ice resurfacer machine, do not open gates or come out onto the ice until the machine is off the ice and the attendant is finished. Please wait for the arena attendant to give you permission before going out onto the ice.
Do not climb onto rink boards, glass or spectator safety netting.
Damaged ice can be dangerous to skaters. Vary your skating routines to prevent damaging the ice surface with ruts or gouges. Chips or holes should be patched immediately.
Any kind of debris left on the ice can be dangerous to skaters. Please keep garbage off the ice, and pick up all pieces of broken hockey or ringette sticks.
Report any vandalism, faulty equipment or problems with ice surface to staff.
Turn off cell phones, PDAs, cameras, and other recording devices when using change rooms or washrooms. Taking pictures within change rooms or washrooms is against the law.
Excessive amounts of scented hygiene products, perfumes or colognes can trigger allergies in other patrons. Please be considerate of other users when practicing your personal hygiene.

Ice Arena Guidelines Brochure

Group Fitness Programs

Health and safety measures when attending drop-in indoor group fitness classes.

Not Permitted

The following actions and items are not permitted:

Taking photos or video without staff permission.
Dropping and/or slamming of weights and inappropriate use of equipment.
Use of equipment that is in need of repair.
Open or glass containers; drinks must be in a re-sealable bottle or container.
Food and gum of any type.
Hanging on the basketball rims or court sport nets.

Thank you for your cooperation. Enjoy!

Pool and Swimming Safety

We're All In This Together

The City of Edmonton is committed to doing everything we can to keep you and your loved ones safe while you enjoy City pools.

Remember learning to swim is the best way to stay safe. The City offers swimming lessons and programs for all ages. For more information, visit Swimming and Aquatics or call 311.

Please remember important safety rules like keeping children under 8 Within Arms Reach at all times.

Pool rules help keep everyone safe. The following guidelines apply at all City of Edmonton pools, and each pool might have additional rules. Please read all signs before swimming.

Learn to swim
Swim with a buddy
Know the water depth before entering a pool
Alert a lifeguard if you or someone else needs assistance
Keep children (under 8) within arms reach at all times
All children (under 8) must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver
The caregiver to bather ratio is 1 caregiver to every 3 bathers under the age of 8 years
The minimum age of a caregiver allowed in a facility to supervise the under 8 bathers is 15
Obey all pool rules

These guidelines apply at all City of Edmonton recreation facilities. Some facilities may have more specific rules for their amenities.

When You Arrive

You'll need to pay at the front desk and if you have questions ask the cashier or request an orientation to the facility.
Let the lifeguards know if you have medical problems such as a heart condition, epilepsy or diabetes.
Stay out of the pool area if you are ill with a cold, flu, stomach virus, bacterial infection or have a severe skin condition. Illness spreads quickly in swimming pools.
Individuals exhibiting signs of impairment from alcohol, drugs or other substances will not be allowed into the facility and consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs are not permitted in the facility.

Swim Apparel

In partnership with the Lifesaving Society, and in compliance with Alberta Health Services, when bathing in a public pool, swimwear must be suitable for general participation in bathing and must not impair swimming skills. Swimwear may be made of different types of fabric as long as it does not put a user’s health at risk or interfere with pool water quality.

In the case of patrons who, for personal reasons, cannot expose a part of their body, a modified version of traditional swimwear must be permissible as an alternative. For example, acceptable alternative swimwear could include footless tights, gymnastic leggings, tight-fitting undershirt, a tight-fitting hood that covers the head and neck with wide openings for the face, tight-fitting sweater or pants, or a wetsuit.

Burkinis and rash guards are examples of acceptable alternative swimwear as face and neck are uncovered and fabric is tight-fitting enough to not interfere with swimming skills. Hands and feet can move freely and there is an additional element of hygiene if hair is covered.

All swim apparel must be clean and brought to the facility for the purpose of swimming.

Prior to entering the pool, all patrons are required to take a cleansing shower in their swim apparel.

All patrons are required to wear bathing suit bottoms, tops are a patron's choice. This swim attire guideline ensures that City of Edmonton pools are aligned with the Alberta Human Rights Act which does not allow for discrimination based on gender, gender identity or gender expression.

Change Rooms and Washrooms

As you enter the change room areas, please take off your shoes and pack away any food or drink you may have with you. Please use the washroom and shower before entering the pool area.
Please leave all valuables at home and lock your belongings up. Lockers are 50 cents (quarters only) or you may bring your own lock. Complimentary wallet/purse lockers are available for small items (for example, keys and cell phone).
Please bring your shampoo/cream rinse in plastic containers only.
Make sure your young children who are not toilet trained are wearing waterproof diapers. These diapers are available from the cashier and should be changed, in the washroom, often.
Children 8 or older must use the change room appropriate to their gender or the family change room.

Pool Clear Safety Drills

Periodically, lifeguards will hold Pool Clear safety drills to help them prepare for real emergencies.

What to Expect if a Pool Clear Occurs During Your Visit

Lane Swim Etiquette

General Guidelines

As lane rules may vary from facility to facility, always follow the instructions of facility staff.
Be aware of other swimmers and your surroundings.
If there is an issue with another swimmer, do not confront them or purposefully make physical contact. Ask the lifeguard for assistance.
Everyone wants to enjoy their swim. Respect others. Swim in a safe manner.

Lane Speed

Choose a lane that is suitable for your speed. There are typically slow, medium, and fast lanes available.
If you are continually passing others or being passed, please move to a different lane.
If you are moving to a different lane, please do so at the end of the pool.
Remember that lane speed is relative. You may be in the fast lane one day and the medium lane the next.

Direction

Swim on the right side of the lane unless otherwise instructed by facility staff or signage
Turn left at the end of the lane so you are swimming in a counter-clockwise pattern.
Keep the black tile line, in the middle of the lane, clear for passing. There may be exceptions; check the signs at the facility or ask the lifeguard.

Starting, Turning, Stopping

Be aware of other swimmers, especially when starting or turning.
Do not turn into oncoming swimmers or push off in front of faster swimmers. When starting, faster swimmers should allow slower swimmers as much time as possible to get ahead.
Stop (or rest) only at the end of the lane. Once stopped, move into a corner of the lane so other swimmers have room to turn.

Passing

Pass slower swimmers on the left and in the middle of the lane.
Pass only when safe to do so. Watch for oncoming swimmers.
When you are about to pass somebody, do not tap them on the foot.
If being passed, allow the other swimmer to do so. Keep a constant pace or slow down.
When moving back in to a lane after passing, pull far enough ahead to allow adequate space between you and the person you are passing.
If being passed at an end wall, pause in the corner of the lane until the faster swimmer has completed their turn and it is safe to continue.

Use of Equipment

Be careful when using equipment (flutter boards, hand paddles, swim fins, etc.).
Do not use another person’s equipment. Collect your own.
When finished swimming, please return equipment to its storage area.

Water Jogging and Other Exercises

Water jogging and other water exercises are permitted in the slow lane.
Please follow the lane swim pattern.
Be aware of other swimmers and move over if needed.

Swimming Lesson Guidelines

On Deck / Spectators

Remove street (outside) shoes prior to entering the pool area. Feel free to bring indoor-specific footwear to wear on the pool deck.
Deck space may be limited; therefore parents who have children in higher swim levels, please use seating in the deep end viewing areas.
Refrain from consuming a large meal before swimming lessons. Light snacks may be required before lessons, however patrons may not eat on the pool deck.

Safety

Discard gum, candy and other food items in the garbage containers provided before entering the pool deck.
Walk, don't run, in the locker room and on the pool deck as the floors are slippery when wet.
Please inform instructors and lifeguards of any medical concerns.
Assist City of Edmonton staff by educating and enforcing the pool rules with your child(ren).
Pool Clears occur whenever there is an emergency in the facility and the lifeguards require patron attention. Facilities practice pool clears regularly to ensure patrons know what to expect should an emergency occur.
- One long blast of a Whistle or an Air Horn means patrons need to exit the pool as quickly as they can. Should a pool clear occur during lessons, instructors will take their students out of the water and wait for further direction.
- It is important that the children stay with their instructor so that we know everyone is safe. As parents, please come join us rather than leaving the facility with your children.
If at any time you feel someone is in distress, let the lifeguard know immediately.

Your Lessons

Remember to bring your Progress Card from previous sessions and give it to your instructor on the first day of lessons.
Arrive for class ahead of time, as class starts promptly at the scheduled time.
Instructors evaluate swimming abilities based on the Red Cross standards. They follow stat sheets, which outline the elements of each skill. Instructors must see each participant complete all of the elements (under each individual skill) 3 separate times, before the individual has successfully completed the item.
Parent Discussion Day occurs midway through the lesson set. Refer to the Program Guide, Confirmation sheet or Facility staff for exact dates.
- 1 minute is allotted to each participant to discuss his/her abilities and improvements before the end of the session.
- This is not a point in the session where the instructor is able to confirm whether or not the child will complete the level.
During each session there is a designated day in which swim lesson participants are asked to wear clothing for a portion of their lesson. This is an optional activity, however it is recommended by the Red Cross as a lifesaving skill. Prior to this day, classes will be reminded of the ‘swim with clothes’ lesson by their instructor.
Lessons are not scheduled on Statutory Holidays.

Water Quality Safety

State-of-the-art water filtration systems, chemical and bacteriological water testing, and regular and thorough cleaning of all pool areas, maintain the high standards of water quality we expect.

Your actions are also key to keeping the water clean, safe and healthy.

Keeping the Water Clean

We work closely with Capital Health to ensure that the water quality meets provincial regulatory requirements as well as the pool facility guidelines for maintaining clean water.
In every swimming pool operation, it is crucial that dirt and harmful bacteria be kept from entering and spreading in this public environment.
Water from the swimming pool and whirlpool is constantly filtered and disinfected to kill bacteria. The chemical levels are monitored at all times to ensure the safety and comfort of pool patrons. Both facility staff and the Provincial Laboratory of Public Health carry out chemical and bacteriological tests on a regular basis. Capital Health monitors the results and recommends procedures for correcting any unsatisfactory test result.
All deck and lobby areas, washrooms and change rooms are checked, cleaned and disinfected regularly. During pool shutdowns, the water filtration system undergoes extensive cleaning, maintenance and upgrades so that it operates at peak performance.

Care for the Water We Share

When you swim, you share the water with everyone else in the pool. Everyone has a responsibility to follow the swimming pool guidelines and keep the water clean and safe.

Here are a few ways that you can keep dirt and harmful bacteria out of public areas, and enjoy a safe and healthy swim:

Please do not visit the facility if you are suffering from a cold, flu, bacterial or viral infection, communicable disease or severe skin condition.
Please do not enter the pool if you currently suffer from diarrhea, or have had diarrhea within the last 2 weeks.
Take a cleansing shower before every swim to avoid carrying dirt, bodily secretions, bacteria or residue from hygiene products into the pool.
Use the washroom facilities before you swim. Don't risk an accident.
Take children to the washroom frequently.
Children who are not toilet-trained must wear waterproof diapers. These diapers are available from the cashier and should be changed in the washroom often. Be sure to clean diapered areas thoroughly.
For individuals who require diapering because of medical conditions, please ensure that these protective coverings are properly secured, and changed regularly to prevent oversaturation and leakage.
Appropriate swimming apparel is required while in the pool. Street clothes can carry dirt or bacteria into the water.
Remove shoes before entering the change rooms or pool area. Shoes can deposit dirt and bacteria onto the pool deck, which will eventually end up in the water.
Animals are not allowed inside the building, unless they are a Certified Assistive Animal, or they are participating in a designated pet therapy program.
No open or glass containers are allowed in the change rooms or pool area.
Finish eating and drinking before you enter the change room. Please use the garbage bins provided.
No spitting. Avoid swallowing pool water.

Emergency Clean Up

Vomit, blood or feces can introduce bacteria and viruses into the pool. Please report any of these spills immediately to staff so that the area can be cleaned. Water contamination may result in a long and costly pool cleaning and shutdown.

Water Quality Brochure

Aquatic Safety Resources

Aquatic Safety Colouring Book

Aquatic Safety Cards

Aquatic Safety Cards are available in the following languages:

Arabic

French

Portuguese

Chinese (Simplified)

German

Punjabi

Chinese (Traditional)

Hindi

Somali

English

Italian

Spanish

Filipino

Polish

Vietnamese

Canadian Drowning Prevention Coalition

The Importance of Learning to Swim for New Canadians

Canadian Red Cross

Water Safety

Life Saving Society

Caregiver Supervision Workbook
For parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, day care supervisors, aides, camp leaders, and so on.

Your First 10 Minutes at the Pool

Swim to Survive

Posters

Aquatic Centre Rules and Guidelines

Pool Safety Drill

Within Arm's Reach

Lifeguards are responsible for closely supervising swimmers, preventing risky situations and responding quickly to injuries, emergencies or those in need of assistance.

They also enforce facility guidelines, provide water safety information and monitor water quality.

Please obey the lifeguards at all times as they are responsible for the safety of all patrons.

Qualifications and Training

Our lifeguards are among the best trained in the country. By following established lifesaving procedures, these dedicated professionals ensure every pool user has a safe and enjoyable experience.

City of Edmonton lifeguard qualifications are above and beyond provincial standards for lifeguards. Requirements include:

Lifesaving Society National Lifeguard certification
Lifesaving Society Aquatic Emergency Care certification
CPR C certification
Be 18 years or older, and have completed Grade 12 in school

These awards must be recertified regularly as required by the governing body.

Lifeguards undergo extensive, ongoing training in the areas of facility operations, site specific safety, emergency procedures and rescue scenarios. Regular in-service training includes:

Self-directed training three times annually including first aid, water rescue, spinals and CPR skills
Lifeguard Fitness Skills
All staff emergency procedures training
Water chemistry and mechanical systems
Customer service
Prevention, Scanning & Recognition Course - Deck management skills
Occupational Health & Safety and ENVISO
Chlorine training

Lifeguards are also equipped with the latest in lifesaving equipment such as Automated External Defibrillators (AED), radios and first aid supplies.

Partners in Aquatic Rescue

City of Edmonton lifeguards work and train closely with Fire Rescue Services to ensure they are ready to act at the moment an emergency strikes.

Keeping You Safe

A lifeguard's first priority is the safety of swimmers.

Since each guard can be responsible for up to swimmers at one time, lifeguards will position themselves in certain locations to have a clear view of the pool area, and will check the whirlpool, sauna and other amenities frequently.

To keep alert, a lifeguard will regularly switch deck locations with another guard, or switch to off-deck duties for a little while.

Please don't distract the lifeguards from their important duties. Limit your conversations to pool business and safety issues.

If you need assistance or first aid, please ask. Lifeguards are there to help.

Emergencies

Lifeguards are trained and equipped to deal with emergency situations and will react quickly. They will attend to patrons in need of assistance while keeping others safe.

Lifeguards may ask you to help by keeping people away from the scene, making phone calls, relaying messages to other staff, or retrieving emergency equipment.

If the situation is serious enough, police officers, ambulance attendants, firefighters or other emergency responders may be dispatched to the scene. Again, please cooperate fully.

The swimming pool may be closed temporarily due to the emergency. The staff at the cash counter will be able to tell you when the pool will reopen, and may offer compensation for the cancelled swim.

If someone needs your help, please assist if it is safe to do so.
If you witness a dangerous situation or an emergency, notify a staff member immediately.
In the event of a major emergency, an alarm may be sounded and the area evacuated. Please follow staff direction and assist if asked.
Be prepared to provide a statement if you were a witness. It will help staff and emergency responders deal with the situation, and prevent it from happening in the future.
First aid assistance is always available.

Aquatic Centre Rules and Guidelines

For More Information

Online	Contact 311 Online

Telephone	311