Best Practices for Open Water Swim Events
The City of Greater Sudbury recommends that groups planning an open water swimming event have a water safety plan in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants. We also strongly recommend that in advance of the event, all participants be confirmed by event organizers as strong swimmers through their affiliation with a registered swim club/group or through a swim test which can be performed at municipal pools. Event organizers should have names and emergency contact information for all participants, and complete checks before and after the event to ensure all participants are accounted for.
Water Safety Plan Recommendations for Open Water Events
Course Design – It is recommended groups design their course in such a way that persons on the shore can see all swimmers at all times. This will help certified on-shore lifeguards properly monitor the course.
Entry/Exit to Water – If not entering the water from a dock/barge it is recommended that prior to the event/race, organizers encourage/permit participants to walk into the water to understand where the natural drop off begins to ensure participants are not trampled when the race commences. Wave starts are recommended when expecting large amounts of participants. Less strong swimmers or those who lack confidence should also be encouraged to start at the back. Event organizers must keep an open pathway to the waterfront for safety vehicles.
On-Shore Lifeguards – The City of Greater Sudbury may be able to provide on-shore certified lifeguards (a minimum of two) at any of the seven municipal beaches for a fee ($39 per hour per staff after April 1) provided the request is received well in advance as a part of the Special Events application process.
- On shore lifeguards and event volunteers should meet prior to the event/race to ensure communication lines are established and discuss protocols in the event of an emergency.
On-Water Lifesaving/Support – It is recommended that on-water support be available in the form of a safety craft (kayaks/paddleboards/boats) to monitor all sections of the course to ensure participant safety. The craft should be equipped with lifesaving equipment, such as lifebuoys and lifejackets. Depending on the shape/design of the course and the number of participants, it is recommended event organizers have at minimum two safety crafts on each side of the course (depending on its size). Example – if the course is a triangle shape, it is recommended to have a minimum of six safety crafts (could be in the form of kayaks/paddle boards etc.). Swim Canada recommends at minimum ratio of one safety craft for every 20 swimmers. Consideration needs to be made based on the shape of the course. If possible, it is recommended that organizers take an ‘eyes-on’ approach to safety whereby every swimmer have one person who is watching them at all times. This could be a friend, parent or volunteer. If there is any sign of trouble that person is to advise a lifeguard immediately.
Qualifications for Water Lifesaving/Support – The City of Greater Sudbury strongly recommends the on-water support holds at minimum a current Bronze Cross certification.
Weather – In the event of inclement weather, such as extreme temperatures (hot or cold), severe lightning, fog or water cleanliness, events and races should be cancelled or postponed. Please consult with City staff leading into your event if inclement weather is expected.
Pre-Event Briefing – The City of Greater Sudbury strongly recommends event organizers review the course, entry/exit into the water and safety considerations with participants prior to the event beginning.
Pre-Event Site Inspection – Prior to the event, organizers should inspect the swim area to identify any hazards (i.e., currents, underwater rocks, broken glass). The City of Greater Sudbury does not inspect waterways and surrounding areas.
Resources for planning your open water swimming event/race:
Swim Canada Open Water Safety Guide (PDF)
Safety Checklist (PDF)
City of Greater Sudbury’s Aquatics Team (If you’re looking to certify officials prior to the race)
The City of Greater offers Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on loan. Units within Greater Sudbury boundaries can be requested on a first-come first-served basis. Events taking place at non-supervised beaches are strongly encouraged to have a first aid kit and AED on site.