The Vancouver Park Board has delayed the annual opening of its five outdoor pools while conducting a thorough review of how to protect swimmers and staff from the risk of COVID-19.
For decades, the board has signaled the return of summer each May long weekend by opening outdoor pools at Second Beach, Kitsilano, New Brighton Park, Maple Grove, and Hillcrest Aquatic Centre. However, the board is awaiting the release of Lifesaving Society Canada’s new operating guidelines to form revised procedures to safely support swimmers at pools.
The Society’s report is expected at the end of May and will include new procedures for lifeguards to protect themselves from exposure to COVID-19 during rescues, including:
- New in-water rescue techniques;
- Modified first aid and resuscitation protocols; and
- Proper use of personal protective equipment.
Once a revised operating plan is developed and approved, the Park Board will move to hire and train staff and ready outdoor pool facilities.
