Prince George RCMP is issuing some water-safety reminders for those who may wish to take the opportunity to cool off by floating down one of the area's rivers.
These reminders come in the wake of two recent incidents that saw river rafters become stranded, in one instance with fatal consequences. Most recently, a family of eight was stranded overnight when their tubes became damaged during a river float.
“Rivers are unpredictable and can contain faster currents or debris that you can’t see from a tube or raft. We also need to remember that our waters stay cold, even in this heat, and this can lead to trouble swimming if you’re exposed for a long period of time,” states Cpl. Jennifer Cooper, media relations officer for the Prince George RCMP.
Here are some tips to help keep yourself safe on our rivers during the heat:
- Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
- Avoid going anywhere alone.
- Make sure everyone in your party is wearing a personal flotation device.
- Speak to people in the community who have used the rivers before and know them well.
- Carry required safety equipment.
- Make sure to have food and water with you in case you are stranded or are out for longer than you anticipate.
You can visit the Canadian Red Cross and AdventureSmart for more information on staying safe around the water this summer.
