June 1, 2023
City of Edmonton Park Rangers, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS), Edmonton Police Service (EPS), the City of Devon and Fort Saskatchewan RCMP are reminding everyone to be safe when on or near the North Saskatchewan River.
“We know the North Saskatchewan River is a popular destination so we’re asking everyone to keep safety top of mind and learn about regulations and etiquette,” said Zain Haji with the City of Edmonton’s Park Ranger Marine Unit. “During our river safety checks with Edmonton Police Service, we continue to find that many people using the river are not in compliance with boating safety regulations which puts them and others at risk.”
Under Transport Canada regulations, river users with a vessel of any kind must bring the required safety equipment along including a personal floatation device for each person, a throw bag, and whistle or sounding device. Any vessel found without personal floatation devices will be directed off the water for their own safety.
“Regardless of whether you are on an inner tube, paddle board, or floating island – if it floats, we treat it as a boat,” said Constable Derek Jones with the EPS Marine Unit. “River conditions are always changing, so having the right safety gear will help you enjoy the experience more fully, and keep your head above water in an emergency.”
Last summer, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services rescued 75 people and animals on or near the river. In addition, last year the Park Ranger Marine unit conducted 11 rescues. As of May 18 this year, EFRS has already had 44 rescue events on or near water in Edmonton.
“The North Saskatchewan River is unpredictable and flow rates change rapidly, without notice,” said Ed Pitman, Acting 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 and currents, temperature and depth of the water.”
“No one plans for things to go wrong on the water, planning ahead can save your life,” stated Inspector Barry LaRocque, Fort Saskatchewan RCMP. "Check the weather and the AB Rivers App before you go, tell friends where you're going and always wear a personal floatation device (PFD)."
Marine units from several agencies in and around Edmonton will be on the river this summer educating boaters on river safety and enforcing bylaws.
