Saskatchewan to Allow Outdoor Sports, Swimming Pools as it Enters Phase 4.1 of Reopening

Saskatchewan is set to lift restrictions related to the novel coronavirus pandemic from Monday, June 22, giving its people more flexibility to enjoy summer. As per the reopening plan, outdoor swimming pools, paddling pools and spray parks are allowed to open effective June 22.

With new plan effective next Monday some other outdoor sports, summer camps and recreational activities may also resume in Saskatchewan. However, full-contact sports such as rugby and tackle football will not be permitted at this time, according to the provincial government.

During a press conference earlier this week, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said sports like soccer, softball and flag football can also reconvene when restrictions are lifted.

Guidelines dictate swimmers and staff, with the exception of household and extended household contacts, maintain a minimum of two metres apart in all areas, including while in the pools.

Outdoor aquatic facilities, with the exception of spray parks, are limited to a maximum of 100 people. Health officials said lane swimming activities must be altered to ensure physical distancing between swimmers.

According to updated guidelines, swimming lessons must be scheduled outside of public swim times and should be permitted only when facility operators are able to maintain physical distancing.

Wherever possible, officials said people should enter and exit the facility in their swim clothes to minimize crowding in change rooms.

Health officials said enhanced cleaning and disinfection is required in public and staff areas, including diving boards and water slides.

Flotation aids, such as flutter boards and pool noodles, are permitted at the discretion of facility operators but these must be disinfected and not shared between non-household contacts, according to guidelines.