With pools reopening in various locations, Swimming Canada has updated its Return to Swimming Resource Document in light of the latest information available in the evolving pandemic response situation.

Public Health guidelines have changed since the publication of Version 1 of the framework document in May. In considering the easing of restrictions across the country, the 16-person Return to Swimming Working Group has made a number of updates to the recommendations in the document, and Version 2 is available HERE. Changes or additions are noted in red, and an updated FAQ document has also been published.

While several changes have been made, the focus of the framework remains a safe return to swimming that adheres to the overarching health, medical and safety considerations. Clubs must adhere to all provincial section requirements, as well as all provincial and municipal public health information and guidelines. All return to swimming plans must have strong risk mitigation strategies related to Health Monitoring, Physical Distancing, Equipment Use, Hand and Personal Hygiene, and any other restriction that may be in effect locally.

“We have been closely watching the varying movement through stages and openings across the country, and are happy to release Version 2 of the Return to Swimming Resource Document with our updated guidelines,” said Swimming Canada CEO Ahmed El-Awadi. “The health and safety of the swimming community and the community at large must remain our top priority and strict adherence to the public health mandates is critical.”

“Swimming Canada would like to thank all the members of our Return to Swimming Working Group, the Provincial Sections, the Canadian Swimming Coaches Association, the Lifesaving Society and our Aquatics Canada partners in the development on this document. In addition, the input from our medical and scientific experts and the advice from the National COVID-19 Return to High Performance Sport Task Force as coordinated by Own the Podium was essential in the development of this document,” El-Awadi said.