The City of Sparks summer swim season gets under way on May 28 with the opening of the designated swim area at the Sparks Marina Park and the outdoor pool at Deer Park. The pool at Oppio Park will be closed due to budget reductions. Following is the 2011 outdoor swim schedule:

Sparks Marina Park: Recreational swimming is permitted in the designated swim area at the north beach only (weather permitting), 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. May 28-30, June 4-5, June 11 - Aug. 28 and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sept. 3-5. Location: 300 Howard Drive. Cost: Free.

The public is encouraged to keep the Sparks Marina a safe, inviting place for everyone by observing the following:

• Do not distract the lifeguards while they are working. Questions should be directed to the Alf Sorensen Community Center at 353-2385.
• In the case of an emergency, call 911.
• Children under eight years of age must have an adult with them in the designated swim area at all times. Keeping your child within an arm's length is a good policy to follow.
• Toys, rafts, noodles, etc. cannot be used in place of swimming ability or for water safety purposes.
• Groups of 25 or more must make a reservation.
• Shade areas are first-come, first-served unless they are rented.

Deer Park Pool: Recreational swimming in the heated, zero-entry pool is permitted from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. May 28-30, June 11 - Aug. 21, Aug. 27-28 and Sept. 3-5. Location: 1700 Prater Way. Cost: Youth (under 18 yrs.) - $3.50; Adult (18 yrs. - 54 yrs.) - $6; Senior (55 yrs. & older) - $4; Family (up to 6 members) - $15. An ‘Almost Free Friday’ promotion will be in place throughout the summer offering all ages a reduced rate of $1 per person to swim on Fridays.

Swim lessons will be conducted at Deer Park pool in two-week sessions (eight lessons), Monday-Thursday, June 13 - Aug. 18. Lesson times are 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. Pre-registration is required.

For more information, call 353-2385 or go online to www.sparksrec.com.