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By Gates Guarin

RCMP reminding river floaters to bring a life jacket or risk fines

Jul 11, 2022 | 12:21 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The upcoming heat wave will be enticing to many Hatters who may choose to spend a day floating down the South Saskatchewan river. Bringing a life jacket along with you will not only keep you safe, but could also save your bank account.

The river is under federal jurisdiction, meaning the RCMP will regularly patrol the waterway to make sure people are staying safe while enjoying the summer sun.

Const. Josee Quirke with the Redcliff RCMP detachment is reminding those looking to get out for a float to wear a life jacket or bring a personal flotation device (PFD). Failure to do so could result in hefty fines. Quirke adds fines are not handed out often, as generally behaviour has been safe.

“I think we see lots of people in floaties and tubes sometimes without life jackets. Maybe they have them in there with them and you don’t really notice it, it’s always nice to maybe try to get a tan while you’re floating down the river and taking in the sun and nice weather, but a life jacket is not much use if it’s not on.” Quirke says.

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“Thinking smart and being safe is two different things. If you have it in the boat, but you don’t have it on, something happens, it’s a little bit too late. So you might want to make sure that you’re wearing those appropriately and that everyone has something that fits them.”

Quirke also says consumption of alcohol while in your water vessel is not allowed. She says these fines are not to take away from people’s experiences, but are in place to ensure the utmost safety for those on the river.

According to the City of Medicine Hat’s website, you could face a mandatory court appearance and up to a $500 fine for not wearing a life jacket or having a PFD while on the water.