Hatters enjoy a paddle on the South Saskatchewan. Officials with the fire department are reminding the public to us caution and sensibility when accessing the river for recreation.--News Photo Collin Gallant
Be prepared if you are planning on heading out on the river this season. Even if you have lots of experience, taking a few minutes to ensure you are prepared never goes amiss.
Taking and wearing a proper lifejacket, bringing lots of fluids (not alcohol and not drinking alcohol beforehand), checking the weather and flow rate of the river, letting someone know where you are going, and your expected time of return are the basics for both beginners and experienced people.
Carter Gramlich, fire prevention officer with the Medicine Hat Fire Department, advises beginners to investigate where they are going and possibly discuss the route with someone who has done it before. The website medicinehat.ca/river-safety provides information the fire department has put together to help someone prepare before heading out on the water.
Even if you aren’t going on the river, but maybe out to enjoy one of the other water bodies around the city, it is important to still wear a lifejacket.
“Where there is water, there is risk,” stated Gramlich.
Some of the issues the fire department has witnessed are those who have an idea in their head about how long it will take to reach the end point, but it takes much longer.
“Especially later in the season, when the water is low, it takes them much longer than anticipated. We’ve seen a few instances where people weren’t prepared to be on the water for that long, particularly if they are doing a longer journey,” explained Gramlich.
This is where it is important to know the flow rate of the river and what the number means.
Another issue is those who have trouble with their craft, say a floatie that starts losing air and leaves them stranded, although hopefully able to reach the shore safely.
“Be prepared for that outcome,” said Gramlich. “Even in a canoe or a kayak, what would you do if you tipped over? A proper lifejacket is the key there.”
