Thousands have flocked to Greater Moncton’s outdoor pools to beat the heat.
They opened just two weeks ago.
The Greater Moncton YMCA operates Centennial Pool and the East End Pool.
“It has been a really strong start to the beginning of the season. Between the two pools, we’re slightly over 7000 participants. Centennial is our busiest pool. Based on the weather, we’ll see anywhere between 400 to 600 at Centennial Park on average,” Senior Director of Aquatics at the YMCA, Joey Doucet, says.
He says the busiest times of the day at the pool are when they open at around 11 am, right up until mid-afternoon. He says it gets a little quieter right around supper time, at around 4 o’clock, and it’s a little less hectic.
A few new programs have been added this year, including senior swims in the early morning at Centennial Pool, Aquafit and parent and tot swims were also new last year.
“This year, between the two pools we have about 45 staff, which includes cashiers, lifeguards and supervisors. We had quite a few applicants this year to choose from, which we haven’t seen in quite a few years. Aquatic training is definitely back up and running in the Moncton area.”
If you’re visiting the outdoor pools for the first time, keep in mind that children under the age of 12 will require a parent to be in the water with them, especially if they haven’t passed their swim test.
“The lifeguards will do a quick swim test for all of the children under 12 to make sure they are safe to swim in water over their heads,” Doucet adds.
Items you’ll want to bring with you include lots of fluids, shade shelters are permitted, umbrellas, sunscreen, and a life jacket if needed. Doucet says they do have a few life jackets to loan out.
There’s also an outdoor pool located in Riverview. The Lion Ken Gabbey pool is operated by the Town of Riverview.
