Swimming pool sunscreen sign taken down at Wadlow Park

The City has removed a sign at the Kiwanis Pool in Stan Wadlow Park on Cedarvale Ave. which asked swimmers to remove sunscreen before entering the pool. The instructions caused some parents to complain. Kiwanis staff had created the handwritten sign and explained that sunscreen leaves an oily film on the water which can make it difficult for lifeguards to see the bottom of the pool. They also said the sunscreen requires them to use more chlorine to purify the water, according to Richard Labonte, a Kiwanis Pool staff member. A City recreation department spokesperson Aydin Sarrafzaden said the sign was a well-intentioned attempt to encourage swimmers to shower prior to entering the pool, but could have been misinterpreted. She said the City regretted any concerns that the sign may have caused.