Policies

Across the Lake Swim is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for all swimmers, volunteers, and spectators. We are dedicated to fostering an environment free of discrimination and harassment. By registering, swimmers agree to follow the Code of Conduct below:

1. Display your valid event cap.
   All participants must wear their assigned swim cap and timing chip where required, from check-in through the finish line. Caps are non-transferable. Swimming without proper identification, in the wrong distance or wave, or in an event you are not registered for is prohibited. Violators may be removed from the event and banned from future Across the Lake Swim events.
2. Follow event protocols.
   Pick up your package in advance, follow gear check procedures if available, start at your assigned time, and listen carefully to instructions from officials. Respect other swimmers, and allow faster swimmers to pass. Medals, shirts, and post-swim food are for registered swimmers only, limited to one per participant.
3. Stay within course boundaries.
   Swimmers must remain within the designated course, which is clearly marked by buoys, officials, and support craft. Leaving the course or attempting to exit outside of approved areas may result in disqualification (DNF) and removal from the event.
4. Respect safety rules.
   Do not invite non-participants (including children and pets) into the swim course or restricted areas. Family and friends must remain outside swimmer only zones and follow the Spectator Code of Conduct.
5. Behave appropriately.
   Unruly, disruptive, threatening, abusive, or violent behaviour, whether verbal, written, or physical, toward officials, participants, volunteers, or spectators will not be tolerated. Irresponsible use of alcohol or substances, or conduct causing damage to others or event property, is prohibited.
6. Welcome all.
   Flags, signs, symbols, language, or gestures that are threatening, abusive, or discriminatory on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, ability, or sexual orientation are not tolerated. Across the Lake Swim is welcoming to all.
7. Respect the event.
   Do not display signs, symbols, or images for commercial, political, or campaigning purposes. Avoid behaviour that targets others or interferes with their enjoyment of the swim. Respect our event partners and sponsors.
8. Be environmentally responsible.
   Never litter in or around the lake. Dispose of gel packs, bottles, and other waste only at designated stations. Pyrotechnics, streamers, or similar prohibited items are not allowed.
9. Pay attention and swim safely.
   Listen for announcements before and during the swim, and follow all directions from staff, lifeguards, and safety officials, including any emergency procedures.
10. Follow safety team directions.
    If you are directed to leave the water, you must comply immediately. A decision by the safety team to remove a swimmer from the water is final and is made for the safety of the swimmer, the safety team, and the event. Swimmers must not argue, become aggressive, refuse to comply, or attempt to negotiate with the safety team regarding the decision.

Participation
Across the Lake Swim reserves the right to refuse or revoke participation where a participant’s conduct, whether at an Across the Lake Swim event or elsewhere, is reasonably determined to be fundamentally inconsistent with the organization’s commitment to providing a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all.

Consequences
Any swimmer who violates these rules may face penalties, including removal from the event without refund, loss of entry, and bans from future Across the Lake Swim events.