Wascana Pool has long lineups on day after bear spray incident

Children were having cannonball competitions and laughter filled the air on Day 2 of the new Wascana Pool on Friday.

Despite a bear spray incident Thursday, families lined up Friday waiting to check out the facility. Some families have been back multiple times since the incident on opening day.

“This is actually our second time coming today,” a woman said with a laugh.

Wascana Pool was closed early Thursday following the bear spray incident. The City of Regina released a statement saying “to ensure the safety of visitors and staff, increased security measures will be implemented (Friday) including having security onsite.”

A few guards could be seen lining the halls of the locker rooms and changerooms Friday. There was also a guard at the front entrance.

Parents at the pool said the added security made them feel more safe.

“I think it’s a good thing, actually. Hopefully it keeps people a little more in check,” said one person.

Another person said they were hoping for safety precautions like this to be taken and are pleased with how the situation is being handled.

When asked for more details about security measures, the City of Regina said in a statement that “safety and security for our patrons and employees is a priority.”

“Wascana Pool was designed with modern security features which will be continuously evaluated and adjusted as required,” the city added. “Security measures are in place in all our facilities to help everyone enjoy our spaces safely.”

On Thursday afternoon, police responded to the pool after getting calls that bear spray had been deployed. Police said “upwards of 200 patrons” had been impacted by the spray, which police said was set off by a group of teenaged boys.