Police and fire officials issue annual river safety appeal
Posted Jul 5, 2018 12:43 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Rafting down the Bow River is growing in popularity each year.
That has emergency officials warning river-goers about safety while drifting along the water.
Peter Steenearts with Calgary Fire Department said there are several dangerous sections along the Bow.
“Archer’s Island around Crowchild Trail and Memorial where … rebar that’s exposed there,” Steenearts said.
Rafters are required to have a flotation device.
A ticket for failing to wear a life jacket comes with a mandatory court appearance and up to $500 in fines.
Officials also urge users to avoid alcohol and any unsafe behaviour on the waterways.
Calgary police Sgt. Alasdair Robertson-Moore said he often encounters rafters who claim they only have a little bit of booze with them.
“Two people in a boat with two 12-packs, that’s not a little bit to me,” he said. “They’re just not considering the risks to themselves.”
The fine for open liquor is $615.
