Know Before You Go

Child supervision and swim tests

6 years of age and under

Directly supervised within arm’s reach of a responsible person 14 or older.

Guardian Ratios

1:2 with no life-jackets
1:4 with life-jackets

7 - 10 years of age

Successful swim test: Visually supervised by responsible person 14 or older.

Unsuccessful swim test: Directly supervised within arm’s reach of a responsible person 14 or older.

Guardian Ratios – unsuccessful swim test

1:2 with no life-jackets

1:8 with life-jackets

11 years of age and older

No supervision required.

Deep-end access may require a swim test, as determined by the lifeguard.

Swim tests

Swimmers must complete a continuous swim once each visit for the required distance (approximately two widths), demonstrating the ability to swim comfortably on their front with their face both in and out of the water.

Swim Etiquette

To reduce the risk of spreading germs and to keep our pools clean, remember the following when participating in our swimming programs.

Shower before you swim

Please shower with soap and warm water before entering or re-entering the pool. Wear appropriate footwear Bring clean flip flops or sandals to wear on the pool deck. Street shoes are not permitted.

Not feeling well?

Swimmers should not use the pool when ill, or if they have experienced diarrhea in the past week.

What to wear?

Patrons on the pool deck must be dressed in suitable bathing attire and pay the posted admission fee. Children that are not toilet trained must wear swim diapers made for swimming pool use. These are available for purchase in the pool office.Food-free zone

No food on the pool deck.

Only water in reusable, non-glass, drinking containers is permitted on the pool deck.

Photographic devices

The use of any device capable of taking a photo is prohibited in the showers, change rooms and washrooms.

Lap Swim Etiquette

Choose a lane that matches your speed and the pace of other swimmers.
Enter the pool at the shallow or designated end of the lane.
Allow faster swimmers to pass by stopping at the wall.
When passing, do so quickly and only when it is safe.
Adjust your pace as needed to minimize disruptions.
Follow the direction of lane swimming (circle swim if required).
Lifeguards may ask swimmers to change lanes or adjust speed based on pool use.

Safe swim and facility guidelines

Slide Guidelines

Mountainside:

Height requirement: 120cm

Age requirement: None

Swim test requirement None

Tansley Woods:

Height requirement: None

Age requirement: 7 years and up

Swim test requirement: Swim test required for rider’s 7-10 years old

Rock Climbing Walls

Children under the age of 7 are not permitted on the climbing structure.
Swimmers aged 7–10 years of age must successfully pass the swim test to participate.
Only one climber is allowed on the structure at a time.
Climbing on the back or sides of the structure is not permitted.
When exiting the structure, feet-first entries are required. Maintain a straight body—no diving or flipping.
Life-jackets cannot be worn on the climbing structure
Climbing must begin from the water—not from pool deck or sides.
After exiting, swimmers must immediately move out of the climbing area.

Diving Boards

Children 6 years and under must be within arm’s reach of a parent or guardian at all times.
Children aged 7–10 years of age who do not pass the swim test must also remain within arm’s reach of a parent or guardian.
Only one person is permitted on the diving board at a time.
Wait until the swimmer ahead has safely cleared the area before proceeding.
Always jump straight into the designated landing area.

External Coaches & Instructors

Coaching, structured instruction, or any form of formal training is not permitted during drop-in or reserved recreational programs. While casual tips or friendly advice are allowed, they must remain informal and be consistent with the program’s recreational purpose and atmosphere.

Activities that resemble ongoing instruction or organized training may be subject to intervention. City staff reserve the right to assess and take appropriate action if any activity compromises participant safety, enjoyment, or the intended use of the program.

Tips for Swimming Lessons

Arrive 10–15 minutes early to allow time for changing and washroom breaks.
Bring all essentials: swimsuit, towel, goggles (optional), and a water bottle.
Ensure your child has used the washroom before class begins.
Proper swimwear is required (no loose clothing). Children who are not potty trained must wear a swim diaper—please ask staff if you need one (extras are often available).
Remain within arm’s reach of your child before and after instructor hand-off.
Parents/guardians must stay in the building during lessons in case of emergency.
Encourage your child to listen to the instructor and follow directions.
Stay positive—learning to swim takes time and practice!