Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services is providing tips on how to stay safe on the water this summer. (File Photo: LNN)
Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services giving tips to stay safe on the water
Jun 19, 2024 | 5:06 AM
LETHBRIDGE, AB – Summer is right around the corner, and Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) is providing tips on how to stay safe on the water.
The Oldman River is a popular place to cool off on hot days, but the City reminds residents that it can present safety risks to those who swim or float on its waters. The same goes for other bodies of water in and around the city.
Some safety tips provided by LFES include:
- Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) or life jackets must be worn by all persons on the water.
- Inspect PFDs to make sure they hold air. This should be done at home before going to the river bottom
- Have a float plan. This should consist of where you plan to enter the river, where you will be getting out, how long the journey will/should take and who is with you. Leave this information with family or friends so they are aware you are on the river. Talk about your group’s swimming abilities so you know who strong swimmers and weak swimmers in your group are
- Have footwear in case you need to exit the river prematurely
- No alcohol or drugs on the river. They impair your ability to swim and possibly fight the current, should you need to
- Have a cell phone in a waterproof bag to keep it dry in case you need to call 911
- Avoid the weir and recognize the warning devices. Portage around the weir by following the signs before the weir
