RCMP urge safe water practices as Albertans try to beat the heat

Aug 29, 2025 | 4:55 PM

As a prolonged heat warning remains in effect for most of Alberta, the RCMP reminds the public to practice safe water habits while taking refuge from the heat.

As residents try to find some relief or soak up the last few days of summer, they may find themselves near lakes, rivers or pools.

While in these areas, the RCMP urges users to follow these tips:

Always wear a lifejacket when operating or riding on any kind of watercraft, even if you’re a strong swimmer .
Supervise children and inexperienced swimmers at all times.
Avoid alcohol or substances that could impair judgement while on or near the water.
Follow all posted safety rules at beaches, lakes and recreation areas.

According to Alberta’s 2025 Drowning Report, prepared by the Drowning Prevention Research Centre Canada, the annual number of water-related fatalities increased from 38 to 52 from 2012 to 2021.

Between 2017 and 2021, 30 per cent of drownings occurred in rivers, 28 per cent occurred in lakes, 21 per cent were in the bathtub and seven per cent in a hot tub or pool.

The report states 100 per cent of recorded drowning fatalities of children five-years-old and under were the result of distracted or absent supervision. The most common correlation to fatalities across all other age groups (15 to 65 and over) was the absence of a lifejacket.

You can read the full report here.

by Ashley Lavallee-Koenig