Calgary Fire Department Responds to Bow River Rescue
At around 11:55am fire crews responded to the Bow River in an area downstream of Edworthy park for a water rescue. The first arriving fire crew located three people in the water holding onto a cluster of trees. Two Fire Department aquatic rescue jet boats were deployed and able to safely get the three people, one adult and two youths back to shore. Aquatic rescuers were also able to recover their paddleboards and personal belongings. While all three people were wearing lifejackets and were not injured, this was a close call incident, and the current conditions are not suitable for recreational activities.
The flow rate of the Bow River has increased to over 500 cubic meters per second, which is almost double the threshold for when a river safety advisory is issued. The very fast flow rate, along with debris in the water and other hidden hazards beneath the surface make it very challenging to paddle. This increases the risk of getting pushed into hazards such as trees and bridge pillars and being pinned by the rush of cold water.
The Calgary Fire Department would like to remind all Calgarians and any visitors to Calgary to:
- Reschedule any recreational activities on Bow and Elbow Rivers until the advisory is lifted.
- Cyclists and pedestrians should watch for low-lying areas where the river can submerge the pathways.
- Please help us share these safety messages with your friends and family
Visit calgary.ca/watersafety for more information as well as calgary.ca/flood for the latest information on river conditions. Visit calgary.ca/pathwayclosures for up-to-date information on pathway closures.
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