Swimsuit Policy

Swimsuit Policy

In order to create a safer and more inclusive space for our campers and staff, we have updated our swimsuit policy for all of our summer camp programs. This new swimsuit policy will ensure all campers and staff can feel comfortable in the water while also minimizing sun exposure. Camp staff will continue to assist campers, as needed, with applying sunscreen before swimming and reapplying at regular intervals. Please read below for the full policy, which will take effect in the summer of 2022 program.

All staff and campers must wear swimsuits that cover their front (chest and stomach) from shoulders to hips. Shoulders may be partially or fully covered. Swimsuit attire must also fully cover private areas, including bottoms. Swimsuit bottoms should be properly sized and stay on the hips, hands-free. Swimsuits with straps should have straps that do not untie, unclip, or unzip.  

While not required, swim shirts will provide the most protection from sun exposure. We recommend swimmers wear a swim shirt to cover their entire torso and protect themselves from the sun. (Potentially add a point about swim shirts being provided for all scholarship participants?) Swim shirts are shirts that can be worn while swimming and are made from nylon, spandex, or polyester. Normal cotton t-shirts cannot be worn in the pool as they can become a drowning hazard due to their baggy fit. Some examples of appropriate swim shirts would be rash guards and dri-fit athletic style shirts.

 Camp Fire will have a limited number of swim shirts available for campers to borrow if/when they forget to bring one. Each site will also have swim shirts available for purchase at cost.

Acceptable swim attire would include: 

• Swim trunks with swim shirt or rash guard
• One-piece swimsuit covering front from shoulders to hips and private areas. 
• Tankini with swim trunks or bottoms
• Swim shirt with swim trunks or bottoms. Campers can choose whether they wear a swim top underneath their swim shirt.

Though any of the above options are acceptable, we recommend all swimmers choose swimwear that covers their entire torso (shoulders, back, and chest) to reduce sun exposure. We also recommend all swimsuits be orange or yellow-colored as they are proven to be more visible underwater and can make it easier for lifeguards to maintain proper visibility of swimmers.