Float for free at Port Stanley

Beach visitors at Port Stanley now have access to free lifejackets through a program launched by Central Elgin.

The municipality collaborated with the Elgin County Drowning Prevention Coalition, as an effort to make the water more accessible and safer for beachgoers.

Lifejackets are available in a range of sizes from adult, youth, child and infant, and can be borrowed at no cost.

“It’s really great that we can offer that to anyone who wants to swim and wants to engage in our beautiful beach here but just gives that extra layer of safety to make sure that everyone can return home at the end of the day,” said Briar McCaw, Elgin County Drowning Prevention Coalition Co-Chair.

To borrow a lifejacket, visit the central lifeguarding tower on Main Beach, present a piece of ID and sign a waiver. A lifeguard will assist with finding the right size, and the lifejackets are first-come, first-served.

The program operates during lifeguard hours, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

Central Elgin Mayor Andrew Sloan said the program makes the beach accessible to even more people. “I like to say we have the best beach on Lake Erie. I’d also like it to be the safest,” said Sloan.