Prioritizing Safety on Calgary's Waterways: An Expert Guide

Calgary, a city uniquely shaped by the confluence of the Elbow and Bow Rivers, has served as a pivotal gathering place for millennia, known by Indigenous communities as Mokenstas, Wichispa Oyade, Goodisis, and Otuscany. These waterways, alongside numerous community lakes, offer unparalleled opportunities for recreation and tranquility. However, their inherent beauty also holds significant risks that necessitate a deep understanding of water safety protocols. Recent data indicates a concerning trend: aquatic rescues in Calgary increased by 31% in 2024 over 2023, with officials projecting an all-time peak in water rescues for 2025. In response, the City of Calgary's Partners in Aquatic Safety—a collaborative effort involving the Calgary Fire Department (CFD), Calgary Police Service (CPS), and Calgary Community Safety (CCS)—rigorously emphasize that "where there's water, there's risk." This guide provides comprehensive insights to mitigate these risks and ensure a safe experience on Calgary’s diverse aquatic environments.

Prudent Pre-Planning: The "Know Before You Go" Imperative

Effective risk management on Calgary's waterways commences with diligent preparation. Prior to any excursion, it is paramount to:

Consult Weather and Water Conditions: Thoroughly check the daily weather forecast for the duration of your planned trip, paying close attention to potential thunderstorms or strong winds. For river expeditions, consult river advisories and flow rates on calgary.ca/watersafety. Community lakes often utilize a flag color system to indicate safe conditions.
Acknowledge Cold Water Hazards: All natural water bodies in Alberta are inherently cold, typically below 20°C, even during peak summer. A sudden immersion can induce cold water shock, a severe physiological response leading to involuntary gasping, hyperventilation, disorientation, and even cardiac arrest, significantly impairing the ability to swim or stay afloat. To mitigate this, consider wearing appropriate thermal layers such as wetsuits or dry suits, particularly if extended water immersion is anticipated.
Develop a Comprehensive Plan: Detail your entry and exit points, the number of individuals in your group, and the estimated duration of your trip. Share this plan with a responsible person remaining ashore. This ensures that someone is aware of your whereabouts and expected return time. Additionally, consider your group's energy levels throughout the day; undertake more strenuous activities when energy is highest. For community lakes, familiarize yourself with Homeowners Association (HOA) rules regarding hours, usage, and boating limits.

Optimizing Equipment and Watercraft Selection

The appropriate selection and proper use of watercraft and safety equipment are non-negotiable for aquatic safety.

Watercraft Appropriateness:

Beach toys and inner tubes are designed exclusively for calm, marked swimming areas in lakes or swimming pools. Their use on fast-moving rivers is highly dangerous due to lack of durability, difficulty in steering, and direct exposure to submerged hazards.
Inflatable rafts intended for river use should be constructed from durable plastic with multiple air chambers and must be inflated to their recommended pressure levels to prevent collapse or entrapment against obstacles.
Ensure any chosen watercraft, such as canoes or kayaks, is suitable for the specific water body and capable of supporting the weight and number of occupants.

Mandatory Safety Equipment:

Transport Canada regulations mandate specific equipment for all watercraft. These include:

Life Jackets (Personal Flotation Devices - PFDs): Wearing a properly fitted, approved life jacket is mandatory by Calgary bylaw for every person on any watercraft, including kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and rafts. Failure to comply can result in fines up to $500 and a mandatory court appearance. Ensure the PFD is correctly sized for your chest (adults) or weight (children), zipping up all zippers, buckling all buckles, and tightening all straps for a snug fit. Perform a pull test: a PFD should not ride up more than three fingers above your shoulders when pulled from the top. Note that automatic inflation PFDs are only appropriate for calm waters and should not be used on fast-moving rivers. Even when simply near fast-moving water, wearing a life jacket is advised due to the risk of unexpected immersion. Consider doggy life vests for pets.
Sound Signaling Device: A whistle is the easiest and most effective way to call for help in an emergency.
15-Meter Throw Line: Essential for rescuing individuals from the water or pulling a watercraft to safety.
Steering Mechanism: A paddle or oar is crucial for maintaining control and navigating away from hazards.
Boat Safety Kit: This kit should include a water bailing device, a sound-signaling device (as above), at least 15 meters of heaving rope, and a waterproof LED flashlight and SOS mirror for emergency signaling. For stand-up paddleboards, a bailing bucket is not required, but the PFD, whistle, and throw rope are still necessary.
Additional Gear for Fast Water: When venturing into areas with very fast-moving water, such as Harvie Passage, consider wearing a helmet, water shoes, and a rash guard to protect against submerged rocks and concrete.

Navigating Key Hazards

Specific dangers are prevalent on Calgary's waterways, demanding focused attention:

Bridge Pillars and Submerged Debris: Bridge pillars and natural debris (e.g., tree branches) are significant hazards that can trap or flip watercraft. It is crucial to steer around these obstacles.
Never Tie Watercraft Together: A critical safety rule on rivers is to never tie watercrafts together. This creates an unmanageable mass that can easily become entangled or fold around bridge pillars, rocks, or other hazards, potentially pushing individuals underwater.
Harvie Passage: This popular white-water destination on the Bow River features two distinct channels. The left side channel is highly advanced with significant drops and should be avoided by anyone without specific white-water experience. The right side, also known as the Sam Livingston channel, is more gradual and suitable for recreational users, though safety gear remains essential.
Ankle Leashes on Stand-Up Paddleboards: Ankle leashes, commonly supplied with paddleboards, are a severe drowning hazard on Calgary's rivers. They pose a high risk of entangling the user or board around submerged objects, leading to entrapment underwater. These leashes are only safe for use on calm lake waters. Advanced users may consider a quick-release waist belt, which allows detachment from the board in an emergency.
Intoxication: Operating any watercraft while impaired by alcohol or drugs is illegal on Calgary's waterways and is treated as impaired driving, a chargeable offense. Impairment severely compromises judgment, coordination, and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of incidents.
Unstable Riverbanks: Exercise extreme caution near riverbanks, as fast-moving water can cause erosion and destabilization, making them slippery, especially after rain.
Environmental Hazards: Be aware of blue-green algae blooms in community lakes, which can be toxic to both humans and pets. Check for signage or Alberta Health Services advisories. Keep pets leashed around wildlife to prevent dangerous encounters.

Emergency Preparedness and Response

Even with meticulous planning, incidents can occur. Knowing how to respond effectively is vital:

Active Supervision: Always keep toddlers and young children within arm's reach while in or near any body of water, including rivers, lakes, pools, and even bathtubs. Assign a "Water Watcher" during group outings to ensure constant surveillance. For optimal safety, one adult should supervise no more than two to three young children, adjusted based on their swimming ability. Consider a lakefront safety fence for homes directly backing onto a lake.
Self-Rescue in Rivers: If you unexpectedly fall into a river, stay calm. Roll onto your back, point your feet downstream at a 45-degree angle, and use your feet to fend off rocks and hazards. Use your arms to steer towards the shore while calling for help.
Assisting Others in Distress: Crucially, if you see someone in trouble, DO NOT enter the water yourself unless you are trained in water rescue. Instead:
- Call 911 immediately. Do not assume someone else has already called. Provide clear details of the emergency, your precise location (using landmarks like bridges or parks, and specifying "river left" or "river right" if possible), and a description of the person in distress (e.g., clothing color).
- Coach self-rescue: Shout clear instructions to the person, such as "look at me and kick your legs".
- Throw or Reach: If safely possible, throw something that floats to them (e.g., a life ring, throw rope from your safety kit) or extend an object they can grip (like a paddle) to pull them to shore.
- Maintain Sight: If you cannot reach them, keep them in your sight and note their last known location and a description of their clothing.
- Post-Rescue Care: Ensure they receive medical attention after reaching shore, even if injuries are not immediately apparent.
General Preparedness Measures: Carry a charged cell phone in a waterproof bag, along with extra batteries. Pack ample water for hydration, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A first aid kit is also advisable. Furthermore, learning to swim is a fundamental life-saving skill, and developing first aid and water safety skills can empower you to assist yourself and others.

Safety in Calgary’s Lake Communities: Calm Water, Real Risks

Calgary’s lake communities — like Mahogany, Lake Bonavista, Auburn Bay, Coral Springs, Chaparral, McKenzie Lake, Arbour Lake, and Sundance — offer a unique lifestyle: private beaches, non-motorized boating, swimming zones, and year-round recreation. But while these waters appear calm and controlled, accidents still happen — often due to false confidence or a lack of awareness.

Common Risks in Lake Environments:

Overconfidence in Calm Conditions: Residents may assume that private lakes are "safe by default" — leading to lax supervision, lack of life jackets, or swimming in restricted zones. We feel safest at home and while our home may be near a lake, we must remain aware of the risks.
Unmarked Drop-Offs: Many lake bottoms slope quickly, and footing can be inconsistent with rocks, algae, or debris.
Floating Hazards: Paddleboards, kayaks, and inflatables can drift into swimming zones or away from shore quickly in the wind.
Blue-Green Algae: Particularly during hot, dry stretches, blooms can be toxic to humans and pets. Ingestion or contact may cause rashes, illness, or worse.
Unattended Water Access: Lakefront homes without barriers pose an ongoing risk, especially to toddlers and pets.

Best Practices for Lake Community Residents and Visitors:

Follow All HOA Rules: Each lake community has specific regulations for boat usage, beach hours, and equipment limits. Read posted signage and stay up to date with seasonal guidelines.
Wear Life Jackets: Whether paddling, paddleboarding, or using any inflatable device, all users should wear a properly fitted PFD — especially children.
Observe Flag Systems and Beach Staff: Many communities use colored flags to signal water quality or safety conditions. Respect staff instructions and hazard warnings.
Supervise Children Closely: Active adult supervision is just as necessary in a lake as it is in a public pool or river. Avoid assuming lifeguards or others are watching your child.
Keep Pets Leashed Near the Water: Even in off-leash zones, lakeside environments carry risks of drowning, algae exposure, or injury.
Store Equipment Safely: Don’t leave boards, boats, or floatables unattended near shorelines where they can drift or tempt unsupervised use.

Lakefront Homes: Additional Safety Considerations

Install fencing or locked gates between your backyard and water access.
Store watercraft out of reach or securely moored.
Use dock ladders and anti-slip surfaces.
Post clear family rules around unsupervised access.

Rafting the Bow River: Enjoy the Float, Respect the Risks

Rafting down the Bow River has become a Calgary summer staple — a rite of passage for locals and a must-do for visitors. Whether you’re launching from Shouldice Park, floating past Kensington, or cruising through East Village, the Bow offers stunning views and a relaxing pace. But don’t mistake "chill" for safe. The river is dynamic, unpredictable, and requires proper planning and equipment — even for casual floats.

The Realities of Rafting the Bow

Fast-Moving Current: Even when the surface looks calm, the Bow’s current is powerful. It’s not a lazy river. Inexperienced users can quickly get pulled off-course or into hazards.
Cold Water All Summer: The Bow is fed by mountain runoff and glacier melt. Water temperatures hover below 15°C, making sudden immersion a real danger due to cold water shock.
Hidden Hazards: Bridge pillars, rocks, and submerged debris (especially near downtown or underpasses) can trap, flip, or puncture rafts.
Limited Exit Points: There are only a handful of proper pull-outs. Miss yours, and you could end up in Harvie Passage or dangerously far downstream.
Overconfidence: The majority of river rescue calls stem from ill-prepared groups using improper equipment — or thinking they “don’t need a life jacket.”

Safety Guidelines for Bow River Rafters

Use Proper Equipment: Rent or purchase river-rated inflatables with multiple air chambers. No pool toys, air mattresses, or discount tubes — they don’t belong on a river.
Wear a Life Jacket: It’s required by Calgary bylaw and could save your life if you fall in. Fines up to $500 aside — it’s the most important piece of gear you have.
Bring a Paddle or Oar: Even slow sections need steering. Wind and current can push you into trees, rocks, or other floaters.
Know Your Route: The most popular float runs from Shouldice to St. Patrick’s Island — roughly 2 to 3 hours. Know your landmarks, bridges, and pullout locations.
Stay Sober: Alcohol and drugs are prohibited on the water and treated as impaired operation. Many river injuries happen when someone is under the influence and can’t respond properly to danger.
Never Tie Rafts Together: It makes steering nearly impossible and dramatically increases the risk of entanglement and flipping.
Avoid Harvie Passage Unless You’re Trained: This engineered section of whitewater near the Calgary Zoo is not for casual users. The advanced channel can be deadly without helmets, whitewater gear, and proper training.
Carry Essentials: A waterproof bag with your phone, throw rope, whistle, drinking water, and dry clothes should be on every float. Don’t leave valuables unsecured — and never assume someone else packed safety gear.

Before You Launch

Check current river flow and safety advisories at calgary.ca/watersafety.
Scan the weather — wind can turn a float into a slog or push rafts into riverbanks.
Leave a float plan. Tell someone when you’re launching, who’s with you, and when you plan to get out.

The Bow is beautiful — but it’s not a theme park ride. With proper planning, the right gear, and full respect for its power, rafting the river can be one of Calgary’s greatest summer memories. Just don’t be the reason emergency crews hit the water.

Exploring the Elbow River: Smaller Waters, Serious Responsibility

The Elbow River may look gentler than the Bow — narrower, slower, and often quieter — but don’t let that fool you. It presents a unique set of risks, especially for those floating, paddling, or wading through its meandering stretches. From its origins in the Rockies to its downtown confluence with the Bow, the Elbow River passes through multiple Calgary neighborhoods, offering scenic beauty and easy access. But safety should still be top of mind.

What Makes the Elbow River Unique — and Risky

Narrow Channels: The Elbow’s tight twists and turns make it more difficult to navigate and easier to get caught in log jams, overhanging branches, or man-made structures.
Unpredictable Depth: The riverbed changes frequently, especially after storms. Shallow sections can drop off suddenly, catching even experienced paddlers off guard.
Hidden Debris: Fallen trees, rocks, and concrete blocks are common — and much harder to see in the Elbow’s more turbid, shaded water.
Lower Visibility: Unlike the Bow’s wider views, the Elbow often limits sightlines. Hazards and turns appear quickly, giving you less reaction time.
Less Public Infrastructure: Compared to the Bow, the Elbow has fewer defined access points, rescue routes, and signage — which means more reliance on user judgment and planning.

Safety Guidelines for the Elbow River

Avoid Pool Toys and Unrated Inflatables: The Elbow may seem forgiving, but it's no place for unicorn rafts or backyard tubes. Use a river-rated craft with steering capability and multiple air chambers.
Scout Your Route: Common put-ins include Sandy Beach and Stanley Park. Take note of where you plan to exit — many floaters underestimate the distance or miss their exit point entirely.
Wear a Life Jacket: No exceptions. The current can move quickly after rainfall, and cold water temperatures remain a risk even on hot days.
Stay Alert in Tight Areas: Keep paddles ready to navigate around debris, tree limbs, and bridge crossings. Narrow spaces demand more active control.
Don’t Float After Heavy Rain: The Elbow rises fast and unpredictably, often spilling into surrounding low areas. Debris loads increase and exit points may become unreachable.
Respect Shoreline Properties: The Elbow cuts through residential areas like Britannia, Elbow Park, and Rideau Park. Avoid trespassing and stick to public access zones.

Additional Tips for Safe Use

Don’t Tie Rafts Together: As on the Bow, this creates a hazard when navigating sharp bends or getting caught in current.
Pack Light, Pack Smart: Bring a dry bag with a whistle, rope, phone, sunscreen, water, and first aid basics. Tether everything securely to avoid littering or losing gear.
Keep Pets Leashed: Dogs are more likely to enter the water here, but currents and debris are just as dangerous in the Elbow as in larger rivers.
Avoid Night Floats: Low light makes hazard detection nearly impossible. Plan all outings during daylight hours.

The Elbow River is a hidden gem — quieter, more intimate, and woven through some of Calgary’s most beautiful parks and communities. But safety still matters. Treat the Elbow with the same respect you would give any body of water, and you’ll ensure that your experience stays memorable for all the right reasons.

Pets and Water Safety: Keeping Your Dog Safe Around Calgary’s Rivers and Lakes

Calgary’s waterways are just as appealing to our four-legged friends as they are to us — but water recreation with pets comes with serious safety responsibilities. Whether you’re bringing your dog to splash in a lake, paddleboard on the Bow, or hike along riverbanks, it's essential to plan ahead and know the risks.

Key Risks for Dogs Near Water

Unexpected Currents: Even strong swimmers can be swept away by river currents. Dogs often misjudge flow speed and struggle to return to shore.
Cold Water Shock: Alberta’s water temperatures remain cold, even in summer. Sudden immersion can cause panic or muscle cramping in dogs, just as it can in humans.
Fatigue and Overexertion: Dogs don't always know when to stop. Long swims can exhaust them quickly, especially in choppy or fast-moving water.
Toxic Algae: Blue-green algae blooms in community lakes are dangerous and potentially lethal for pets. Ingestion while swimming or licking fur afterward can result in rapid illness.
Wildlife Conflicts: Off-leash dogs near water can encounter geese, muskrats, porcupines, or even moose — all of which can turn aggressive if startled or threatened.
Sharp Debris: Broken glass, fishing hooks, and jagged river rocks can injure paws or get lodged in fur.

Safety Guidelines for Pet Owners:

Use a Canine Life Vest: Choose one with a secure belly strap and a handle on top. Even strong swimmers benefit from the buoyancy and visibility.
Keep Dogs Leashed Near Currents: Don’t let dogs run free near rivers unless you’re in a designated off-leash area with shallow, slow-moving water.
Avoid the River During High Flow: After heavy rains or mountain snowmelt, the Bow and Elbow Rivers become fast and unpredictable — not safe for dogs or humans.
Bring Fresh Water: Don’t let your dog drink from rivers or lakes, especially if algae, foam, or discoloration is visible.
Watch for Signs of Distress: Labored swimming, rapid panting, or refusal to re-enter the water are signs to wrap up the session.
Clean and Check: After water play, rinse off your dog, check their paws and ears, and inspect for cuts, ticks, or foreign objects.

Water Safety for Children: Protecting Calgary’s Youngest Explorers

Calgary’s lakes and rivers are family favourites, especially during hot summer days. But what feels like a day of fun can become dangerous in seconds — particularly for children, who are among the most vulnerable near water. Drowning is silent, fast, and often preventable. Whether you're at a private lake in Auburn Bay or walking along the Bow near Prince's Island Park, active supervision and preparation are critical.

Why Kids Are at Higher Risk

Lack of Awareness: Children often don’t recognize hazards such as fast-moving currents, deep water, or unstable banks.
Overconfidence: Older kids who can swim may overestimate their abilities in unfamiliar or open water conditions.
Distraction Factor: It only takes a few seconds of looking away — distractions like phones or conversations reduce vigilance.
Rapid Onset: Drowning can occur in under 30 seconds and often without splashing or screaming.

Best Practices for Keeping Children Safe Around Water:

Touch Supervision: For toddlers and non-swimmers, always stay within arm’s reach — not just within sight.
Designate a “Water Watcher”: Assign one adult to actively supervise. This means no phones, no alcohol, and full attention. Rotate this role every 20–30 minutes to avoid fatigue.
One Adult per 2–3 Children Max: Especially important in busy or open-water settings like rivers or public beaches. Adjust based on each child’s swimming skill.
Use Properly Fitted Life Jackets: Water wings and floaties are not safety devices. A Transport Canada-approved PFD should be worn at all times in boats, on paddleboards, or when near fast-moving rivers.
Avoid Riverbanks and Drop-offs: These areas can erode quickly and collapse under a child’s weight. Stay on marked trails or beaches where possible.
Teach Self-Rescue Early: Older kids should know how to float on their back, keep feet downstream in rivers, and steer to shore if swept away.
Enroll in Swim Lessons and Water Safety Programs: Water competency is a life skill. Look for Red Cross or Lifesaving Society programs near you.

For Lake-Front Homes or Community Beaches:

Install fencing or barriers between home and water access.
Use bright clothing or hats so children are easy to spot.
Avoid toys near the water’s edge — they attract unsupervised play.
Create strict boundaries: no water without permission and an adult present.

The Silent Danger: How Quickly Drowning Can Happen

Drowning isn’t dramatic. It’s not like the movies. There’s usually no splashing, no yelling, and no warning. In reality, drowning is fast, silent, and often goes unnoticed until it’s too late — especially in crowded or seemingly calm environments like rivers, lakes, or even backyards.

Key Facts About Drowning Timing:

It can happen in 20–60 seconds. That’s how long it takes for a child or non-swimmer to submerge and lose consciousness.
It’s often silent. Drowning victims can’t call for help. Their airways are underwater, and the instinctive drowning response prevents them from waving or yelling.
Most drownings happen less than 10 feet from safety. In rivers, that may mean a missed grab at the raft. In lakes, it could be slipping off a dock or playing near a drop-off.
Supervised doesn’t mean watched. Many incidents occur when adults are nearby — but distracted. Looking at a phone, chatting, or assuming someone else is watching can all create fatal gaps in supervision.

Why Every Second Matters:

In just a few seconds:

A toddler can fall into a lake and disappear below the surface.
A weak swimmer can panic after jumping from a paddleboard.
A rafter can get trapped under an overturned float without anyone noticing.

And once a person is submerged, the window for successful rescue shrinks rapidly. Brain damage can begin in as little as 3–5 minutes without oxygen. Full cardiac arrest follows shortly after.

Preventing a Tragedy:

Designate a Water Watcher: One adult. No distractions. No phones. No exceptions.
Keep kids within arm’s reach: If they’re not strong swimmers, you need to be able to grab them instantly.
Use life jackets — not floaties. Only Transport Canada-approved PFDs provide reliable buoyancy.
Know what drowning looks like: Bobbing vertically. Head tilted back. Gasping. Eyes glassy or closed. No noise. If it looks wrong, it is.

A Collective Responsibility

Calgary's waterways offer immense recreational value. By adhering to these safety guidelines—encompassing thorough planning, proper equipment use, awareness of specific hazards, and preparedness for emergencies—Calgarians can significantly reduce risks and fully enjoy their aquatic experiences.

For additional information and current advisories, consult calgary.ca/watersafety, and follow the social media channels of the Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Police Service, and Calgary Community Safety. Prioritizing water safety is a collective responsibility that ensures the enjoyment of our natural resources for all. Never hesitate to call 9-1-1 to alert the aquatic rescue team if you see something concerning on or near the waters.

Dusko Sremac – Calgary & Area REALTOR®

Whether you’re relaxing on the shores of Mahogany Lake or floating down the Bow River, Calgary summers are made for water. At REPYYC, we live where we sell — and we know the lifestyle inside and out. Dusko Sremac helps families find homes in Calgary’s most sought-after lake communities and riverside neighborhoods — and reminds everyone that safety should always come first.

Cell: 403‑988‑0033 | Email: dusko@repyyc.com | Instagram: @DuskoSremac_REPYYC

Posted by Cody Tritter on July 13th, 2025

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