living
WHAT’S UP WITH…
Summer Water Safety
LETHBRIDGE EMERGENCY SERVICES,
W AT E R R E S C U E T E A M
I L L U S T R AT I O N : C O U R T E S Y O F C I T Y O F L E T H B R I D G E
F L O AT I N G O N T H E O L D M A N R I V E R is a popular summer activity, and
we want you to enjoy it safely. There are three safe launch areas in Lethbridge
for boaters and floaters:
• Popson Park
• Indian Battle Park
• Highway 3 Bridge Launch Area
For your safety, please note that there is a mandatory portage route around
the weir, located south of Indian Battle Park, near the Water Treatment Plant.
Float times can vary depending on the time of year, but following are
estimates for departures from each of the three safe launch areas:
• Popson Park to Upper Weir Portage: 3–4 hours
• Lower Weir Indian Battle Park Launch area to Highway 3 Bridge: 1–2
hours
• Highway 3 Bridge launch area to Peenaquim Park: 1–2 hours
• Highway 3 Bridge launch area to Pavan Park: 3–4 hours
Safety on the River
When you tube, swim, wade or enjoy any other activities on the water,
please keep safety in mind. Hazards include undercurrents, dams, weirs and
submerged objects. These hazards might not always be easily visible, so while
you’re having fun, remember to be aware of what’s around you.
Water Safety Tips
• Have a float plan and share it with someone: Where are you entering and
exiting the river? How long will it take? How many people? When are
you leaving and returning?
• Always take a buddy. Never swim, float or fish alone.
• Always wear a life jacket.
• Check weather reports before you head out.
• Never use drugs or alcohol while floating or enjoying other activities in or
on the water.
• You could be on the water for several hours, so remember to take
supplies: shoes, cell phone, flashlight, whistle, life jacket, water, and
sunscreen.
Always Beware the Weir
At no time should you go anywhere near the weir. It is extremely dangerous,
and there is a mandatory exit spot to the portage route. Watch for signs and
establish where it is located before you head out on the water.
Do you have a question you’d like to ask the City of Lethbridge?
Submit it to [email protected] and we’ll get you some answers!
Visit www.lethbridge.ca/water-safety
for more information about water safety.
14 LETHBRIDGELIVING.COM
JUL-AUG 2017