DISCLAIMER: 

I understand that swimming in open water involves inherent and changing risks.

I acknowledge that these risks may include, but are not limited to:

• cold water and cold-water shock;

• hypothermia;

• changes in water depth, temperature, visibility and conditions;

• submerged objects, plants, mud or uneven surfaces;

• slips, trips and falls;

• weather and environmental conditions;

• water-borne bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms;

• contamination or pollution;

• illness or infection;

• blue-green algae/cyanobacteria and other naturally occurring algae;

• contact with aquatic plants or wildlife;

• accidental swallowing or inhalation of water;

• injury to myself or others; and

• in extreme circumstances, serious injury or death.

I specifically acknowledge that the swimming venue is a natural freshwater environment in which algae and/or cyanobacteria may naturally occur, which can sometimes produce toxins which may cause illness following contact with, ingestion of or exposure to affected water.

Possible symptoms may include skin irritation or rashes, eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and muscle or joint pain.

I understand that natural water conditions can change and that not every risk can necessarily be identified by visual inspection. I understand that it may not be possible to determine whether an algal bloom is toxic simply by looking at it.

I therefore agree:

• Not to enter the water where WholeHealth has advised that swimming is prohibited because of algae/cyanobacteria or other water-quality concerns;
• Not to deliberately swim through, touch or ingest visible algal scum or accumulations;
• To avoid swallowing the water; and cover any cuts or wounds with waterproof dressings
• To wash hands after swimming and before eating, or use hand sanitiser if not available
• To follow all signage, safety instructions and directions given by WholeHealth staff;
• To leave the water immediately if instructed to do so;
• To report any unusual water appearance, scum, smell or other concern to WholeHealth staff; and
• To inform WholeHealth promptly if I experience symptoms following swimming.
• Not to swim if I am feeling unwell or suffering from gastrointestinal illness.

I understand that WholeHealth may suspend, restrict or cancel a swimming session where it considers water quality, algae/cyanobacteria or other environmental conditions present an unacceptable risk. I acknowledge that WholeHealth cannot guarantee that the water is completely free from microorganisms, algae, cyanobacteria, pollution or other naturally occurring contaminants. I agree to follow WholeHealth’s water-quality and safety instructions and understand that these measures are intended to reduce risk rather than eliminate it entirely.

I agree to:

• swim within my own capabilities and to comply with reasonable instructions given by WholeHealth staff, lifeguards, safety personnel or other authorised persons
•  inform WholeHealth of any relevant medical, physical or other circumstance that may affect my ability to participate safely.

• only enter the water when the Lifeguard opens the lake for swimming, and exit the water when instructed to do so by Lifeguards
• register before entering and immediately after exiting the water, using the membership card system or guest list. 
• wear a tow float at all times whilst in the water. WholeHealth caps and towfloats are available to buy or borrow on site.
• if inexperienced in open water swimming stay on the ‘small loop’ during the whole time in the water 
• Under 18s MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times while in the water. 
• Enter and exit the water at the specified place and stay within the designated swim route unless instructed otherwise by a lifeguard. 
• Roll on to your back, hold onto your towfloat, and signal for rescue by waving an arm rapidly in the air and shouting for help if you get into difficulty whilst in the open water.
• not enter into the space of other water users, e.g. those fishing.
• not swim or enter the water if feeling unwell, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 
• take full responsibility for belongings whilst within the swimming area
• ensure that any children or dogs accompanying you are at all times kept away from the water’s edge or pontoon
• agree to respect and abide by the safety rules as laid out by the WholeHealth team
• observe swimming procedure for the specific session. eg by always swimming in a clockwise direction in the loop swims, unless instructed to do otherwise. 
• Wash wetsuit and all swimming equipment between swims.

I understand that I may withdraw from a swim at any time.

I understand that, although WholeHealth will operate appropriate safety and emergency procedures, the nature of open-water swimming means that an emergency may occur despite reasonable precautions.

I agree to provide an emergency contact to be kept on file, and to follow emergency instructions and to cooperate with WholeHealth staff and emergency services where required.

I confirm that I have had the opportunity to read and understand this document and to ask questions about the risks associated with open-water swimming.

I understand that participation is voluntary and that I have chosen to participate having considered the risks described above.

Nothing in this acknowledgement is intended to exclude or restrict any liability which cannot lawfully be excluded or restricted.

I confirm that:

☐ I have read and understood this waiver and risk acknowledgement.

☐ I understand the specific risks associated with algae and cyanobacteria in natural freshwater.

☐ I agree to comply with WholeHealth’s water-quality, safety and emergency instructions.

☐ I understand that a swimming session may be suspended or cancelled where conditions are considered unsuitable for swimming.

ENJOY YOUR SWIM!