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With summer heat rising, Olds RCMP are reminding everyone heading to local lakes and rivers to keep safety top of mind.
“Warm weather draws many to the water, and with that comes the need for extra awareness and care,” the detachment said in a July 7 social media post.
The reminder applies to all water activities — whether boating, kayaking, canoeing, or swimming.
Key safety tips from police include:
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Stay sober — “Boating or swimming impaired puts you and other waterway users at risk,” the advisory states. Like driving, it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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Know before you go — Always check weather and water conditions before heading out. “If a thunderstorm comes without warning, head for the shore.”
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Plan ahead — Let someone know your route and expected return time. “Do not take to open water without an understanding of where you are or where you are going.”
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Preparation is key — Ensure your watercraft has all required safety equipment: lifejackets for everyone on board, signalling devices, bailing containers, and emergency supplies such as food, water, clothing and a phone.
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Know your limits — Fatigue and exhaustion while swimming can cause drowning.
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Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) — “Wearing a lifejacket or PFD can save your life and it is the best insurance you can have on or near the water. Remember, lifejackets only work when they are worn.”
Recent drowning statistics from the Lifesaving Society’s 2024 Alberta Drowning Report highlight the risks.
Fifty-six per cent of drowning deaths occurred between May and September.
According to the report, the most common locations for drowning in Alberta were:
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Rivers – 28%
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Bathtubs – 26%
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Lakes and ponds – 23%
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Other locations – 15%
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Hot tubs or pools – 8%
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Lifeguard-supervised settings – 1%
Seventy-five per cent of drowning victims were male. In 82 per cent of boating-related cases where information was available, the victim was not wearing a personal flotation device.
The most common recreational activities linked to drowning deaths were:
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Swimming – 23%
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Walking, running or playing near water – 18%
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Non-powered boating – 15%
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Powerboating – 11%
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Fishing – 10%
Alcohol was a factor in 64 per cent of drowning deaths where known.
In Calgary, the City’s Partners in Aquatic Safety — a joint effort of the Calgary Fire Department (CFD), Calgary Police Service and Calgary Community Safety — warned of a potential all-time high in water rescues for 2025.
“Last year saw a 31 per cent increase in aquatic rescues over 2023 and an above average number of fatalities,” said Carol Henke, Public Information Officer for the Calgary Fire Department. “Based on trends in river use, the Calgary Fire Department estimates a potential all-time peak in water rescues for 2025.”
The greatest number of rescues typically occur in July. Calgary Fire says since 2016, river rescues in the city average 52 per July, with the Bow River stretch between Shouldice Boat Ramp and Harvie Passage posing the highest risk.
Paddleboard incidents continue to concern crews. According to CFD data, seven aquatic rescues involving paddleboards occurred in 2024, including one where a person was tied to the board and dragged downriver.
“Standup paddleboards are increasingly popular on Calgary’s waterways,” the Partners said in their June advisory. “Most paddleboards come with an ankle leash which are not safe for use on Calgary’s rivers, which have resulted in two fatalities in recent years and several serious incidents.”
“Do not use the ankle leash while paddleboarding on the river,” the advisory states. “There is a high risk of being pulled under water or getting the leash entangled which can trap someone under water as there is no way to detach the leash during an emergency.”
Inspectors from both Calgary Police and Community Safety also emphasized enforcement.
“Wearing a lifejacket or personal flotation device is not just a choice; it’s the law,” said Inspector Sue Wall of Calgary Community Safety. “Bylaw and CPS officers are dedicated to enforcing water safety bylaws, so let’s protect ourselves and avoid fines while enjoying Calgary rivers and lakes.”
Not wearing a PFD on city waterways can result in a fine of up to $500 and a mandatory court appearance.
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