Aquatics Rules

OUR POOLSIDE PROMISE

  • To always remain vigilant and focused on our primary responsibility—protecting lives. Please understand that we may not always be able to stop and talk. If you have a question, please see a deck supervisor for assistance.
  • To continuously scan the pool to recognize swimmers in distress within 10 seconds and provide assistance as soon as possible.
  • To maintain a position that ensures an elevated view of the pool at all times.
  • To participate in regular training to refine our skills and stay at the forefront of aquatic safety.
  • To always have a rescue tube, mask, and gloves ready for use.

POOL AGE, SUPERVISION & SWIM TEST GUIDELINES

To comply with updated Oregon regulations (OAR 333-062-1000), the YMCA has updated its pool age and supervision requirements.

Important Update: The YMCA's age requirement for guardian supervision and swim testing has increased from 12 and under to 13 and under to align with updated Oregon regulations. 

AQUATIC FACILITY GUIDELINES

POOL SAFETY

  • Pools may only be used when a lifeguard is on deck.
  • For your safety, the lifeguard's decision on rule enforcement is final.
  • Shower before entering the pool – Take a cleansing shower before swimming or after using the restroom.
  • Protect our water – Do not use the pool if you have had diarrhea in the past two weeks or have a communicable waterborne illness.
  • No diving except in designated diving areas.
  • No running or rough play.
  • No animals in the pool area.
  • No glass or breakable plastic.
  • No food or drink in the pool.
  • Water and alcohol don’t mix – No one under the influence of alcohol may use the pool.
  • Immunocompromised individuals should use caution when using a public pool.
  • Children under 13 must pass a swim test to enter deep water (armpit deep). The test includes a 25-meter front crawl swim and a 30-second tread.
  • For children under the age of 13 who are unable to pass the swim test:
    • They must have a parent or guardian IN THE WATER and within arm's reach if they are in water over armpit depth. 
    • They are not permitted to enter the deep end. 
  • If a child under 13 does not pass the swim test, the parent or guardian is still required to remain INSIDE THE AQUATICS FACILITY at all times while the child is swimming. 
  • Swimmers who are not toilet trained must wear a snug-fitting swim diaper with a plastic cover.
  • Spitting, urinating, nose-blowing, spouting water, or depositing foreign matter in the pools or spa is strictly prohibited.
  • Only Coast Guard-approved life jackets are allowed as primary flotation devices.
  • No excessive splashing.
  • Do not climb on the island in the lazy river.
  • Do not block the fountains in the lazy river.
  • No repetitive or competitive breath-holding.
  • Repeated violations of pool safety rules may result in loss of pool or YMCA privileges.

 SPA SAFETY

  • Water and alcohol don’t mix – No one under the influence of alcohol may use the spa.
  • Spa capacity is 15 people.
  • Protect our water – Do not use the spa if you have had diarrhea in the past two weeks or have a communicable waterborne illness.
  • The spa is only open when a lifeguard is on deck.
  • A cleansing shower is required before entering the spa.
  • Individuals with health concerns – Elderly individuals, those on prescription medication, pregnant women, and those with heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure should consult a physician before using the spa.
  • No children under 9 years old may use the hot tub. 
  • Children ages 10-12 must have a guardian IN THE HOT TUB with them. 
  • Ages 13 and over may use the hot tub independently. 
  • No horseplay or submerging your head in the spa.
  • No life jackets or YMCA pool equipment allowed in the spa.
  • Limit spa use to 15 minutes at a time.


SLIDE SAFETY

  • Warning: Water depth is 3 feet 6 inches.
  • Water and alcohol don’t mix – No one under the influence of alcohol may use the pool.
  • Riders must be at least 48 inches tall.
  • Wait for the signal from Aquatics Staff before climbing onto the slide.
  • Slide feet first only – either sitting up or lying on your back.
  • No goggles, masks, or swimwear with exposed zippers or metal ornamentation allowed on the slide.
  • Always enter feet first – No somersaulting, twisting, or diving from the end of the slide.
  • One rider at a time, unless assisting a small child.
  • Do not attempt to stop while sliding.
  • After entering the water, swimmers must surface and swim to the nearest pool edge.

DIVING BOARD SAFETY

  • Water and alcohol don’t mix – No one under the influence of alcohol may use the pool.
  • The diving board may only be used under the direct supervision of Aquatics Staff.
  • Non-swimmers may not use the diving board. Children under 13 must pass a swim test.
  • Only one person is allowed on the ladder and board at a time.
  • For safety, only one bounce is allowed.
  • No running on the diving board.
  • No handstands, back dives, or sitting on the board.
  • Only jumping or diving straight off the end of the board is permitted.
  • After entry, swimmers must surface and swim to the nearest pool edge.
  • Only Aquatics Staff may adjust the diving board.

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