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Water safety tips from Cochrane Fire Services

Cochrane Fire Services advises people to take serious safety precautions before venturing out to the water for recreation.
fire-services_jet-boat
Cochrane Fire Services operates inflatable and hard top jet boats for water rescue.

While the Bow River remains one of Cochrane’s most beloved summer destinations, recent weather conditions have made recreational water activities more dangerous than usual.

“We've had a pretty big summer of severe storms and last-minute weather changes,” said Cochrane Fire Chief Shawn Polley. “The Bow River is running high and fast due to heavy rainfall, with strong currents, hidden debris, and unstable riverbanks. These conditions significantly increase the risk of injury or drowning.”

Chief Polley is encouraging residents and visitors to avoid river activities until conditions stabilize with warmer weather. He emphasizes the importance of checking current weather forecasts and river conditions before making plans.

“Knowing the forecast is essential for anyone heading outdoors, especially those planning to be on the Bow River,” he said.

Being weather-aware is just one aspect of water safety. Polley highlights the need to be conscious of one’s surroundings and to plan for sudden weather changes, including lightning, strong winds, and cold temperatures.

“The Bow River remains very cold due to continuous runoff from the mountain parks,” Polley noted. “Appropriate clothing and awareness of shelter options during severe weather are critical.”

Cochrane Fire Services, one of the primary rescue agencies along the Bow River, is equipped and ready to respond.

“We have trained personnel on shift daily, operating two boats for river rescues,” Polley explained. “We also coordinate with the local RCMP, who have a jet boat that can operate on both the Bow River and Ghost Reservoir.”

When individuals are located during rescues, they’re brought to safety for medical evaluation or hospital transport if needed.

“We’ve assisted people caught in storms or affected by medical conditions,” said Polley. “We work closely with Alberta Health Services EMS to ensure they receive the care they need.”

Polley advises river-goers to have a solid plan in place before setting out, including:

  • Knowing your start and end times
  • Carrying a communication device in a dry bag
  • Informing a trusted contact of your plans

“Not all areas along the river have cell service,” Polley warned. “If you’re near a highway and need help, try flagging someone down.”

Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) are strongly recommended, especially over pool floaties or single-chamber inflatables, which are not designed for moving water.

“A simple inflatable might be fine on Mitford Pond, but it’s not safe on a fast-moving river,” said Polley. “We recommend multi-chamber, self-bailing boats for the Bow.”

For paddle board users, Polley offered one crucial tip: attach your ankle leash to your PFD, not your leg. In strong currents, being tied to your board could become a serious hazard.

When responding to river emergencies, Fire Services focus solely on saving lives, not recovering lost belongings.

“We don’t collect boats or gear during rescues,” Polley clarified. “Life-saving is always our priority.”

Although the number of water rescues so far this season is below average - likely due to poor weather - preparation, knowledge, and proper equipment remain the best ways to reduce risk and keep our river adventures safe.

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