City encouraging life jackets for river safety ahead of August long weekend
As people look to enjoy the long weekend and potentially cool off in rivers, the City of Edmonton is reminding people to keep safety a top priority.
Park Rangers have noticed people entering bodies of water aren't wearing life jackets, the city said in a news release on Thursday.
In May, the city implemented a lifejacket bylaw that requires everyone on a floating or on a vessel on the river to wear a lifejacket at all times.
'The goal of this bylaw is to ensure everyone who wants to enjoy the water in Edmonton is able to make it home safely,' the city said in a news release.
'A life jacket can help prevent drowning in case of an emergency and ensure the safety of our first responders during rescues.'
So far this year, Park Rangers have given 473 warnings for people not wearing a life jacket and have issued one ticket. Edmonton Fire Rescue Services have been called to 24 requests for help at the North Saskatchewan River in the spring and summer months already.
If you are planning to head out onto the water, be sure to check the weather, the river depth and flow rate and pack safety equipment.
'The North Saskatchewan River can be unpredictable, with fast underwater currents, strong undertows and unforeseen hazards including underwater debris, floating trees and wood, and muddy shorelines,' the city said.
People are asked to contact Edmonton Fire Rescue Services if there is an emergency.
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