Free swimming lessons offered in Calgary amid pleas for water safety this summer

The City of Calgary is reminding residents to stay safe around rivers and lakes, after firefighters rescued seven people from local waterways in just one week.

Whether you’re floating down the river or splashing in a lake, Calgarians are being urged to use caution while in the water this summer.

Every year, the Partners in Aquatic Safety remind people just how dangerous summer activities like boating and swimming can be with the hope that tragedy can be prevented.

The group is made up of multiple city groups, including police, fire and bylaw officers.

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“Our city’s waterways are wild places that are seeing a growing number of preventable incidents,” warned Alex Kwan, public information officer with the Calgary Fire Department, in a news release.

Kwan says just last week, firefighters had to rescue seven people after they became pinned on a bridge abutment on the Bow River.

“Water incidents, including drownings, can happen very quickly – yet are avoidable if you follow simple guidelines, such as knowing your route, current river conditions and ensuring that your plan and boating equipment is appropriate to conditions and the skill level of your group,” Kwan said. “And on all lakes and rivers, lifejackets and proper supervision are critical for children and inexperienced swimmers.”

The Calgary Fire Department’s aquatic rescue crews will regularly be patrolling the Bow and Elbow rivers this summer, and police and bylaw officers will be patrolling waterways, pathways and riverbanks to make sure everyone is following the rules.

“If you’re on a boat, you need to wear a life jacket,” said Staff Sgt. Andy Woodward. “If you’re steering that boat, you need to wear a life jacket and you need to be sober. Being impaired by drugs or alcohol while operating a boat is no different than being impaired by drugs or alcohol while driving a car; it’s dangerous and it’s illegal.”

Calgarians caught without a life jacket or personal flotation device can face a fine of up to $500, as well as a mandatory court appearance.

“Wearing a lifejacket or personal flotation device is not just a choice; it’s the law,” said Insp. Susan Wall, Community Safety. “Bylaw and CPS officers are dedicated to enforcing water safety bylaws, so let’s protect ourselves and avoid fines while enjoying Calgary rivers and lakes.”

Free swimming lessons

To help prevent tragedies on Calgary waterways this summer, the City of Calgary is offering free swimming lessons on June 25 at Thornhill Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Acadia Aquatic and Fitness Centre and Bob Bahan Aquatic and Fitness Centre.

To register, visit calgary.ca/WorldSwim.