Alberta Health Service reminds public of late-summer water safety

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on August 9, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

Alberta Health Services reminds residents of the risk of injury when out enjoying the provinces’ lakes and rivers, and shared a few tips to help keep safe while on the water.

“Wear a proper fitting Canadian-approved life-jacket or Personal Flotation Device in a boat, kayak, canoe or other water sports and make sure it fits,” said AHS.

Albertans are advised to make sure children are wearing life jackets at all times when on, in, or around water, and to be aware of where there may be fast-moving currents. Officials ask that guardians stay right beside any children, and note that even adults should not swim alone when there is no lifeguard present.

As always, avoid alcohol, cannabis and any other substance that may affect your judgement before and during water activities.

Drowning and injury however, are not the only risks associated with natural water sources.

“Lakes, rivers and streams may contain illness-causing microorganisms,” said AHS. “Check for recreational water advisories or look for posted advisory signs at public beaches. Not all beaches are monitored for biological, chemical and physical hazards.”

Water should not be consumed straight from any lake or reservoir, at any time, as they can contain water-borne organisms and fecal bacteria, which may cause vomiting or other illness.

AHS continues that it can be dangerous to swim or wade where there is visible cyanobacteria bloom, and that they should be avoided. Pets should also not be allowed to wade or swim in these areas.

In addition to microorganisms, AHS warns, water may contain the larvae of certain parasites, which can cause a rash commonly known as swimmer’s itch. The parasites can get under the skin when a person swims in lakes, ponds, creeks, streams and rivers, but cannot be gotten from swimming pools properly treated with chlorine.

To avoid swimmer’s itch, AHS recommends showering and drying off with a towel quickly after leaving the water, and avoiding swimming areas that have weeds.

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