Edmonton police marine unit reminds river users to play safe

The Edmonton police Marine Unit is out in full force this summer.

The unit, which patrols 50 kilometres of the North Saskatchewan River with the Edmonton city limits, is deployed during weekends and special events, such as Heritage Days and the Dragon Boat Festival.

Sgt. Derek Jones said the unit has been in operation for several years, and members have noticed more people using the river this year compared to years past.

“Maybe [it’s] just a recognition of what we have here in Edmonton,” he said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Maybe [it's] just a recognition of what we have here in Edmonton," he said.

Jones said the unit encourages people to use the water, but to do so safely. The marine unit patrols the river, stopping boaters, kayakers and floaters, to ensure they have the proper equipment.

“For floaters of course you have to have equipment and just personal equipment too like cell phones in bags, food, hydration, sunscreen for those hots days. You just have to be aware of the river because it does change.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "For floaters of course you have to have equipment and just personal equipment too like cell phones in bags, food, hydration, sunscreen for those hots days. You just have to be aware of the river because it does change."

Jones said notable calls so far this summer include capsized canoes, alcohol issues, users who get lost and users who aren’t prepared for their time on the water.

The unit works with Alberta Fish and Wildfire, Edmonton Civic Events, park rangers and Edmonton Fire Rescue.