Municipal Beaches Open June 30 for the Summer Season

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Wednesday, June 24, 2015 (Halifax, NS) – Dig out your swimsuits! All municipal beaches and the outdoor pool at the Halifax Common officially open to the public for the summer season on Tuesday, June 30.

There are a variety of beaches, lakes and outdoor pools across the Halifax region, many of which are supervised by trained lifeguards every day of the summer. All municipal lifeguards have specialized training in injury prevention and first aid, and are equipped with emergency supplies for a waterfront setting. Most municipal beach sites and the Halifax Common outdoor pool are supervised from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The following are some helpful tips for anyone planning to spend time around the water this summer:

  • Know how to swim. If you don’t, sign up for free lessons through the Halifax Regional Municipality.
  • Always swim with a buddy in supervised areas only.
  • Adults should never leave children unsupervised near water. There should be one adult supervising for every three children under the age of six, or one adult for every six children 6-7 years old. 
  • Avoid relying on flotation devices like rafts, water noodles or water wings.
  • Know the warning signs. Avoid swimming if you are too tired, too cold, had too much sun, too much strenuous activity or are too far from safety.
  • Avoid diving in unfamiliar or shallow waters, which can lead to serious spinal cord injuries.

Residents are reminded that the municipality is once again offering free swimming lessons and Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross and junior lifeguard programs at all its municipal beaches and the Halifax Common outdoor pool.

There is still space available in some classes. If interested, residents can register by calling 902- 490-6666, by visiting any municipally operated community recreation centre in the Halifax region or online at the municipal “Rec Connect” page. Simply visit www.halifax.ca/rec/ProgramsandActivities.php and click on “Beach” to sign up. If classes are full in your community, registration for the second round of free lessons opens on Wednesday, July 8.

For more information on municipal beaches, facilities and recreation programs across the municipality, please visit www.halifax.ca/rec/ProgramsandActivities.php.

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