After a man’s deadly fall from a cliff near Albion Falls this past weekend, Hamilton firefighters are out with a reminder on the dangers of the escarpment and steps you can take to protect yourself.
An unidentified man in his 20s fell about 40 metres to his death on Saturday afternoon.
Two other people who were with him were rescued by firefighters and weren’t hurt.
Police are continuing their investigation and have released few other details.
The Hamilton fire department’s Fire Safety Officer, Dave Forster, says it’s the fourth time this year that first responders have been involved in a rope rescue along the escarpment after being called out 25 times last year.
Forster says “the nice weather encourages people to get out and be active and they don’t water to discourage that, but they want to make sure people are aware of their surroundings.”
He says there are several measures that can be taken such as sticking to marked trails, don’t climb or bypass fencing, check out the falls from viewing platforms and stay away from slopes and the edge of the escarpment.
Forster also suggests you stay away from dangerous areas to take a photo, ensure you wear appropriate footwear and only visit the falls during the daylight hours.
More safety tips
The city of Hamilton has included these safety tips on its website.
- Stick to the marked trails to access the waterfalls, creating your own trail is dangerous and is considered trespassing.
- Respect posted signage, stay on trails and do not climb or bypass fencing.
- Check out the falls from a viewing platform, this is the best place to see the falls and enjoy the view!
- Stay away from the bottom of gorge, waterfall or escarpment areas – there is a chance of falling rocks and you could slip and fall on wet or algae-covered rocks.
- Stay away from slopes and edges of the escarpment – ground can become unstable in these areas and pose a fall hazard.
- Be mindful that some areas are prone to flash flooding – pay attention to weather conditions.
- Stay at least one body-length back from the edge of gorges, waterfalls and escarpment areas. This is especially important for children and pets.
- Some waterfalls in Hamilton have polluted water, do not swim or wade in them.
- Stay away from dangerous areas to take a photo – your life is more important than a selfie or landscape shot.
- Ensure you wear appropriate footwear and only visit the falls during the daylight hours.
- Do not consume alcohol or take medication that may affect your balance while walking near the falls.
- Enjoy the plants and wildlife near the waterfalls, do not litter or trample the delicate plants.
- Parents/Guardians keep a very close watch on children and take the time to discuss safety concerns before and during your visit.
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