The water in area rivers is running extremely fast and that has prompted the city to issue an advisory against boating activities.
The advisory was issued by Calgary police, fire and Animal & Bylaw Services because of the safety hazard in the Bow and Elbow rivers.
“Although temperatures may be rising, the risks associated with being on the rivers remains significant. Water flow is highly elevated and very cold, there is a significant amount of debris in the water and the high turbidity makes visibility in the water next to none,” says Deputy Chief Ken Uzeloc, Calgary Fire Department. “For the safety of river users, as well as for the safety of emergency responders, we encourage everyone to stay off the rivers until conditions improve.”
“Due to the current conditions, recreational activities on the river simply aren’t recommended,” says A/Sgt. Ed Perkins of the CPS Marine Unit.
Members the CPS Marine Unit will be checking the Bow and Elbow rivers over the long weekend to ensure that those who do choose to take the risk are taking the appropriate precautions.
“Our goal is for everyone to enjoy the city’s river ways in a safe manner while engaging in appropriate behaviour that respects the law, the environment and other citizens,” said Bill Bruce, Director, Animal & Bylaw Services.
The city says that conditions on the rivers can change quickly and users should be prepared for a variety of conditions.
- Boaters should always wear a life jacket or personal floatation devices (PFDs)
- Equip the watercraft with a sounding device, such as a whistle
- Bring a buoyant heaving line (throw-bag) no less than 15 metres long and a bailer.
The fire department says that the increased water levels and flow rates may increase the hydraulics on the Class 2 and 3 rapids at Harvie Passage and that an increased level of experience and skill is required to negotiate the rapids safely.
