Wild Waterworks reviewing safety policies after pushback on public weight scales

A popular waterpark in Hamilton is reviewing its safety measures following a news story CHCH News aired Sunday.

A teenage girl who is battling anorexia said she was triggered after being asked to weigh herself before getting on one of the water slides at Wild Waterworks.

Hamilton Conservation Authority, which oversees Wild Waterworks, told CHCH News Sunday maximum weight limits are needed for safety. In an effort not to offend specific individuals, all riders are being asked to go on the scales before being permitted on the attraction.

However, changes may come soon to the water park after the HCA heard the feedback from the news story.

“The HCA will be reviewing our safety procedures to determine how best to meet safety standards and follow guidelines and restrictions, while still providing the best possible visitor experience,” said Brittany Fletcher, a communications coordinator at HCA.

At Wild Waterworks, there are six slides available for guests and each ride has height and weight restrictions. Riders must weigh less than 400 pounds for four of the slides. For the other two, riders must weigh less than 300 pounds.

Many parkgoers said the requirement to publicly step on a scale before entering the slide is embarrassing and challenging for those struggling with an eating disorder.