June 29, 2022
City of Edmonton Park Rangers, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, Edmonton Police Service (EPS) and RCMP are anticipating another busy summer of recreation on the North Saskatchewan River and are reminding people to be safe on the water.
“We saw a notable increase in usage on the North Saskatchewan River last year compared to 2020,” said Zain Haji with the City of Edmonton’s Animal Care and Park Rangers. “During our river safety checks with Edmonton Police Service, almost half of the people using the river were not in compliance with boating regulations and were putting themselves at risk.”
When on the river, users need to bring all relevant safety gear including a personal floatation device for each person, a throw bag and whistle or sounding device.
“With the Canada Day long weekend approaching, we are reminding people to stay safe on the river,” said Constable Derek Jones with the EPS Marine Unit. “We want you to enjoy yourself and be around for future adventures on the water, so please wear a lifejacket and have the basic boating safety gear if you are going to be floating down the river.”
In the summer of 2020, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services responded to 104 water rescue events. Last summer, that number increased to 138 including animal rescues. To date in 2022, there have been 42 water rescues.
“The North Saskatchewan River is unpredictable and flow rates are likely to change rapidly and without notice,” said Bruce McWhinnie, Chief of Special Operations with Edmonton Fire Rescue Services. “This presents a variety of dangers for those in or near the river, including dogs. It’s important to wear lifejackets, have a safety plan before you head out and take into account possible weather changes, water currents, water temperature and water depth.”
Devon RCMP conducted 51 vessel inspections last year on the North Saskatchewan River near Devon and found:
- 10 per cent of boaters were missing a floatation device,
- 14 per cent were missing a buoyant heaving line and
- 12 per cent were missing a sounding device such as a whistle.
“The float from Devon into Edmonton is extremely popular,” said Chris Mosley, Detachment Commander for Devon RCMP. “That being said, it’s extremely important that people know roughly how long it might take to get to their final destination and plan accordingly. Float times vary from day to day depending on water flow, wind and other factors.”
Marine units from several agencies in and around Edmonton will be on the river this summer educating boaters on river safety and enforcing bylaws.
