Woodson YMCA Aquatic Policies
Our aquatics team works diligently to provide a safe, clean and comfortable swimming experience for all of our patrons.
Aquatics Policies
Safety
Showering: All patrons must shower before entering the pool.
Life Jackets: All life jackets must be Coast Guard approved.
No Long Breath Holding: No Breath Holding, No Hyperventilation or Extended Underwater Swimming is Allowed. Prolonged breath holding is the cause of many water-related deaths.
Lap Swim
North Pool Age Requirements:
- The North Pool is not for open/family swim.
- Lap Swim is open to those who can proficiently swim the length of the pool.
- Swimmers aged 17 and under must be able to swim 25 yards without a flotation device and must be cleared by the lifeguard on duty.
- Lap Swimming: Lap swimmers are expected to share lanes if all lanes are full. Learn more about lap sharing.
Deck Rules
Street Shoes: To maintain cleanliness of our deck facilities and to follow the WI Dept. of Health and Family Services codes; we cannot allow street shoes on the pool decks. Shoes not worn on the street is an acceptable alternative.
Food/Beverages: To ensure the cleanliness of our aquatic facility, food cannot be allowed on the pool deck. Beverages need to be in a non-glass, no-spill container. Chewing gum is not allowed in the aquatic facility.
Electronic Devices: Electronic devices, including cell phones, cannot be used in locker rooms. Please be polite and have telephone conversations outside of our program areas.
Open Swim
South Pool & Aspirus Pool
Age Requirements:
- Ages 0-6: Guardian must be in the pool within arms reach of child.
- Ages 7-8: Guardian must be in pool and actively supervising.
- Ages 9-11: Guardian must be in pool area and actively supervising. Deep water swim test required by lifeguard.
- Ages 12+: Child can be alone in pool and pool area. Deep water swim test required by lifeguard.
- Ask the lifeguard on duty for a swim test.
Swim Lessons
Cancelling Classes: The YMCA may need to cancel or combine classes due to low enrollment.
Refund Policy: Refunds/credits will not be issued due to inclement weather or personal schedule conflicts. Credits may be given for medical reasons only, and must have Aquatic Director’s approval.
Registration: All fees are due at the time of registration. Mail-in registration is not accepted. Fees are non-refundable.
Make Up Classes: Make-up classes are not provided for missed classes.
Swim Attire Guildlines
Proper swim suits need to be worn in the swimming pool.
We will only allow the following items of clothing in the pools and spas:
The YMCA strives to be a safe environment for all.
Lifeguards have the right to ask you to change or leave if wearing inappropriate swim attire.
Swim Attire
Purchasing swim attire specifically made for swimming pools.
Bright, High-Visibility Colors: Neon pink, neon orange, bright red, and neon yellow are easiest to see in the water and enhance swimmer safety.
Avoid Low-Visibility Colors: Blues, greens, black, and other dark shades blend with the water, making it harder to spot swimmers.
Best Fabrics: Lycra and nylon are non-absorbent materials specifically designed for swimming, ensuring better water quality and safety.
To maintain water quality and safety, please adhere to the following guidelines:
No Cotton or Absorbent Clothing: Cotton and similar materials absorb pool chemicals, reducing their effectiveness and clouding the water. These fabrics can also break down and clog filters.
No Colored Non-Swim Attire: Clothing not designed for swimming may bleed dyes into the water, disrupting its chemical balance.
No Street Clothes: Street clothes can transport airborne and ultimately waterborne contaminants into the pool.