Lifeguards back on duty as Barrie’s beach season begins

As summer heats up, so does activity along Barrie’s waterfront. Beginning today, Friday, June 27, lifeguards will be back on duty daily from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at two of the city's most popular beaches: Centennial Beach and Johnson’s Beach.

Bright signage will be posted behind each lifeguard chair, signalling when supervision is active. While these measures are reassuring for families and casual swimmers, city officials remind everyone that safety remains a shared responsibility—especially at Minet’s Point and Tyndale Beach, where no lifeguards are stationed.

Parents and guardians should always provide direct supervision at the beach. While lifeguards are a vital layer of safety, nothing replaces hands-on care and awareness.

Free PFD loaner program returns

With water safety top of mind, the City is again offering its Personal Flotation Device (PFD) Loaner Program at Centennial and Johnson’s beaches. Visitors can borrow a lifejacket at no cost from the lifeguard office during supervised hours. The initiative has become a cornerstone of public education in the region.

Approximately 90 per cent of drowning victims are found not wearing a lifejacket or PFD. This program makes safety more accessible and promotes good habits.

Accessibility and clean water

The accessibility mat at Centennial Beach—anchored in the sand and connected to the boardwalk—makes it easier for wheelchairs and strollers to get closer to the shoreline.

Water quality is also being closely monitored. Weekly testing by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit ensures safe swimming conditions at five locations, with public warnings issued if bacterial levels exceed provincial thresholds.

For updates and more on beach amenities across Barrie, head to barrie.ca/beaches.