At Canterbury Hills Camp, our outdoor pool is run in accordance with all relevant Public Health policies, and is maintained by a certified Pool Operator. A formal Public Health inspection is conducted at the start of each summer season to ensure everything is working properly. 

During the summer, our pool undergoes daily chemical testing to ensure the water is swimmable and safe for camper use. These tests are performed and documented by the pool operator, facility maintenance staff, and our NL certified lifeguards. 

Prior to our summer sessions beginning, all of our Lifeguards, both NL certified lifeguards and Bronze Cross certified assistant guards, undergo in-house training with our senior staff Aquatic Program Coordinator to ensure comprehension of camp safety policies and NL certified rescues. During the summer, our entire lifeguarding staff meet weekly to discuss all matters relevant to the pool, as well as to organize times for practiced rescues. Both of these measures ensure our staff are always informed and prepared to execute a rescue should the need arise. 

Our pool is gated, and remains locked unless a lifeguard is on deck. At no point are staff or campers allowed within the pool gates unless a certified lifeguard is present.

Regardless what program your camper is in, within their first full day of camp they will participate in a swim test, which requires them to be able to swim the width of our pool without touching the bottom in the shallow end (please note that the swim test for Adventure Camp is a longer swimming distance, as it is in relation to the time the campers will spend on the Grand River).

This test is demonstrated by a staff member and overseen by the National Lifeguard certified lifeguard on duty. 

The lifeguard on duty will keep documented track of which campers pass or fail the swim test, and will pass that information on to the necessary Cabin Counsellors. Based on their qualified assessment, lifeguards will then make recommendations such as:

• The camper wear a personal floatation device (lifejacket) at all times in and around the pool
• The camper wear a personal floatation device (lifejacket) if they want to go in the deep end of the pool
• The camper wear a personal floatation device (lifejacket) and have a staff member within arm’s reach of them at all times within the pool

As you know your child best, if floatation devices, such as water wings or a personal lifejacket from home, would bring you and your camper more comfort, you are more than welcome to send them with your child, and our staff can ensure the items are worn during swim times.