By Charlotte Morritt-Jacobs - (@morrittjacobs on Twitter)

Lethbridge Fire Department Asks Residents to be Safe Floating on Old Man River

Jun 8, 2016 | 1:02 PM

LETHBRIDGE – The Lethbridge Fire Department is asking the public to take precautions when they float down the Old Man River.

Firefighter and Parametic Erik Larsen stresses the importance in considering all variables that pertain to water safety.

“First check the river’s flow and levels; make sure it is even safe to go into the water with. In the spring the river level rises and there are hazards and when the river is low that can also come with its own problems.”

Larsen said that everyone on the water should have an emergency kit with paddle, or a bucket to bail out water.

“Every year we have a few rescue situations that involve people that go out without a plan. If they go out later in the day and the flow of the river is a little bit lower they may not make it to their destination before dark and then need to be rescue.”

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While there is currently no fine for floating down the river without a personal floatation device, Larsen said that he suggests every level of swimmer wears one just in case.

The Lethbridge Fire Department is also reminding residents to stay away from the weir when planning their float. 

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