Parks Canada is urging vacationers to use Jasper’s rivers and lakes for recreation with caution, following a number of incidents on local waterways. 

On the long weekend from July 30 to August 2, Parks Canada was on stand-by for a number of water related incidents. A Parks helicopter was searching for an overturned kayak when they discovered two people stranded on an island on the Athabasca River. The couple had been riding on small inflatable rafts, and were intoxicated without life jackets. The couple did manage to make it to land on their own power under the watchful eye of Parks’ rescue staff after denying the help offered to them. That weekend also saw an injured cliff jumper and a runaway kayak. 

Parks is reminding canoeists and rafters that the temperature of many rivers and lakes in the Jasper area can be as low as 11-13 C. The body stops functioning quickly in temperatures that low, and can make the swim to shore extremely difficult. 

Local rivers have a number of hazards that can lead to a raft being punctured or a canoe tipping including rocks, logs, whirlpools and waterfalls. It is important to know the river you will be recreating on. The rivers are also fast moving and can throw an adult or child off their feet easily. 

Each year about 150 people die in boating accidents in Canada, and more than 500 drown. There have been many tragic incidences in the news recently related to unsafe water practices. 

All boaters must wear a personal floatation device at all times on the water. A whistle must be worn, and each boat must have a 15m buoyant rope to be used in the event of an emergency. A bailing device in each vessel is required as well. 

Parks is encouraging those using rivers and lakes in Jasper to carry the following as well: thermal protection or wet suit, at least one paddle, a helmet for Class 3+ water and a durable vessel instead of pool toys or small inflatable rafts. Experience and training are also an asset. 

Parks would like to remind boaters that drinking in public is illegal according to the Alberta Gaming and Liquor act. This includes all lakes, rivers and local beaches.

When touring one of the many beautiful waterfalls the Jasper National Park has to offer, it is recommended that all sightseers remain behind barriers and keep children away from steep embankments or waterfalls.