Calgary's partners in river safety remind of river dangers

Calgary, Alberta – Before the rafting season begins, the Calgary Fire Department, along with Animal & Bylaw Services and the Calgary Police Service, want to ensure that anyone considering going on the Bow and Elbow Rivers is reminded about our re-issued river safety advisory and the dangers of rafting or boating.

“Our rivers have changed since the 2013 flood and we want to make sure that anyone thinking about going on the rivers is aware of the many dangers,” said Ken Uzeloc, Deputy Chief with the Calgary Fire Department. “We’ve noticed several changes - from the flow of the river, to riverbanks that have been carved away and the debris that has been displaced in and around the rivers causing new hazards. We have re-issued a safety advisory as a result of these conditions and we recommend all river users exercise caution before deciding to go on the water.”

Last summer, just after the 2013 flood the Calgary Fire Department issued a river advisory in response to the increased water flow and river hazards. As river hazard conditions still exist, a river safety advisory has been re-issued today.

In addition to the changes to the river caused by the June 2013 flood, this year there are several City of Calgary construction and development projects happening along the riverbanks that may also affect safe boating. River users are advised to visit the City of Calgary’s interactive map and select “flood recovery” to view the many projects.

For more than four years, the Partners in River Safety, which includes the Calgary Fire Department, Animal & Bylaw Services and the Calgary Police Service, have been working to keep Calgary’s river users safe.

“The Calgary Police Service is committed to education and awareness to enhance public safety in and around Calgary’s waterways this summer,” said Insp. Cliff O’Brien of the Calgary Police Service. “Our Marine Unit, along with partner agencies and other units within the Service, will maintain a high visibility uniformed presence to address issues of water safety, public behavior and public alcohol consumption. Our purpose is to maintain public safety and encourage respect for local communities.”

Calgary’s Partners in River Safety recommend that all river users make themselves aware of water levels, temperature, current, visibility and hazards in and around the water, that can catch, trap or overturn vessels. Anyone considering using Calgary’s rivers is encouraged to always be cautious and to scout, assess and decide from shore before rafting, boating, or going on the water.

A video will be made available online showing a portion of the many river hazards that currently exist. For more information on river safety and to view this video, please visit www.calgary.ca/fire.

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