‘Inherent risks to all parts of the river’: Officials urge caution while floating the Bow and Elbow

This weekend kicks off the busiest time of year for aquatic rescues in Calgary, and officials want anyone floating the Bow or Elbow to be extra cautious.

As July approaches, the Calgary Fire Department water rescue team is expecting a busy month ahead.

Officials want anyone floating the Bow or Elbow to be extra cautious—wear a life jacket and don’t drink or smoke cannabis.

“It’s not top of mind for a lot of people, so that’s why every year we want to remind people about the dangers,” said Carol Henke, public information officer for the Calgary Fire Department.

Aquatic safety experts say the Bow and Elbow rivers, even during summer heat, can see flow and temperature variations very quickly.

“There’s inherent risks to all parts of the river,” said Alex Kwan, community safety officer for the Calgary Fire Department.

Kwan says the busiest stretch of the Bow River begins at the Shouldice boat launch and goes through to Harvie Passage in Inglewood, especially where there are bridge crossings.

“What we see is people get into trouble by getting pushed by the current against any of the bridge pillars,” said Kwan.

The risks on the water are high.

Since 2016, there have been 29 fatalities.

Last July, there were four deaths on the water—higher than the average.

Wearing a life jacket is not only life-saving—it’s the law.

Failure to wear one could result in a $500 fine.

Calgary police say booze and cannabis should only be consumed where it’s safe and legal on dry land.

“We don’t want to see any tragedies. We’ve seen enough in the past,” said Acting Insp. Kurt Jacobs.

There will be an increased presence of police and peace officers along the shoreline, not just for enforcement, but also for education.

“We want you to have fun on the waterways, but we want you to be safe and we want you to get home at the end of the day,” said Acting Sgt. Mark Smith.

Emergency officials recommend having a plan.

The rules on the water are the same as on the road.

Alcohol or cannabis consumption is not allowed.

If you are impaired, you can be charged—just as you would as an impaired driver behind the wheel.

Police officers say not everyone might be aware of this.