Police are reminding Edmontonians to keep safety top of mind if they’re out enjoying the North Saskatchewan River this long weekend.
Const. Derek Jones, a member of the Edmonton Police Service Marine Unit, said officers will be patrolling the waters for impaired boating as part of Operation Dry Water.
“Our focus is raising awareness on alcohol and drug-related recreation on the water,” he said on Sunday.
Jones said impairment on the water can be risky.
“You’re dealing with a moving body of water. The clarity of the river is not super. There’s a lot of dangers that happen underneath what you can see,” he said.
The 12-member marine unit patrols the river within the city’s borders periodically throughout the summer, Jones said.
“It’s been a pretty good summer. Everybody knows we’re out here now,” Jones said when asked if there has been excessive alcohol use on the river.
READ MORE: Lifesaving Society urging people to boat sober this August long weekend
He said officers have been patrolling boat launches, sandbars and the popular Accidental Beach to keep people safe. His advice on how to stay safe?
Jones said the marine unit has been involved with rescues caused by anything from a motor failing, bad weather systems or floaters encountering rough conditions.
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