The RCU Aquatic Centre in Winkler is inviting families, kids, and adults of all ages to join them for 'Swim Smart' Day this Wednesday, July 23rd, for an afternoon focused on both water safety education and fun activities.
Lifeguards lead the fun
Dean Klassen with the RCU Aquatic Centre called the event a chance to educate people in a fun, low-stakes way.
"We like to have a little bit more of a connection with the community. A bunch of our lifeguards are gonna be in the water and actually help participate in some of our activities and run some activities."
Among the lineup of activities are some long-time favourites at the pool that include the Coke Dive, in which "We throw like a bunch of cans of Coke in the deep end. Kids get to jump in and get them."
Klassen shared other games in the lineup would water volleyball, water basketball, diving board competitions, and speed slide races.
Safety through play
Beyond the activities, the event places a strong focus on water safety and education for those in attendance.
"Through each activity, we find time to chat about things that are important, like how we're entering the water and just making sure that every entry is a safe entry, right? Especially if you don't have the depth of water you're entering," Klassen explained.
As part of the day’s activities, the RCU Aquatic Centre’s lifeguards will also host a special demonstration where they will plan, coordinate, and perform a mock rescue to show how they respond in the case of an emergency.
Open to all ages
Klassen confirmed that Swim Smart day is for anyone, with activities strategically designed for different age groups to make sure everyone has something to do.
"We have activities that cater to a shallow end audience for younger kids and the deep end audience for older kids and teens. Adults are more than welcome to come,” Klassen said, “We're gonna have some information about just the national drowning report and some information so we can spread some awareness."
RCU Aquatic Centre’s Brooke Animalla shared that if you are a regular pool-goer, you may have already paid your admission fee.
“It's $3, but if you have a season pass, then your season pass covers it."
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Snacks, treats, and prizes
Participants will also be able to enjoy snacks and special treats during the day, with the Heat Wave open, sponsored snacks, as well as some prizes rumoured to make an appearance at some point throughout the day.
"I won't say too much about them, but we're looking at some good prizes for this year," Klassen said.
The RCU Aquatic Centre Swim Smart day in Winkler will take place Wednesday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- with files from RCU Aquatic Centre -