As the Okanagan gears up for a busy summer, RCMP in Kelowna want to remind us to be safe while on the water.
“The Okanagan’s waterways are a cherished part of our community, offering endless opportunities for recreation,” says Cpl. Allison Konsmo Media Relations with the Kelowna RCMP. “However, the beauty of our lakes and rivers can sometimes mask inherent dangers. We urge everyone to make water safety a top priority this season by following simple, yet critical, guidelines.”
Key Water Safety Tips for Okanagan Lakes and Rivers provided by RCMP:
- Wear a Lifejacket: This is the single most important safety measure. A properly fitted, Canadian-approved lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) should be worn by everyone on a boat, personal watercraft, or when engaging in activities like paddle boarding or kayaking, regardless of swimming ability. Drowning can happen silently and quickly.
- Supervise Children Closely: Children, especially young ones, should be actively supervised at all times when near or in the water. Designate a responsible adult to maintain constant visual contact.
- Never Swim Alone: Always swim with a buddy. Even strong swimmers can encounter unexpected currents or difficulties.
- Know Your Limits: Be realistic about your swimming ability and the conditions of the water. Cold water can rapidly reduce your endurance and strength.
- Beware of Cold-Water Shock: Okanagan lakes can remain surprisingly cold, even on hot days. Cold water shock can quickly lead to gasping, hyperventilation, and loss of muscle control. Enter cold water gradually to allow your body to adjust.
- Don’t Drink and Boat/Swim: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of accidents on or in the water.
- Check Water Quality Advisories: Before heading out, check for any swimming advisories issued by Interior Health for specific beaches. These advisories are in place to protect public health from elevated bacteria levels. You can find this information on the Interior Health website or the City of Kelowna’s public beaches page.
- Be Aware of Currents: Rivers and areas near dams can have strong, unpredictable currents. Obey all warning signs and stay clear of designated danger zones around hydroelectric facilities. Water levels can change rapidly near dams.
- Watch for Boating Traffic and Hazards: Stay alert for other boats, personal watercraft, and submerged hazards like logs or rocks. Maintain a safe distance from other vessels.
- Clean, Drain, Dry: Help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, like zebra and quagga mussels, by thoroughly cleaning, draining, and drying all boats and gear before moving them between different bodies of water.
“By taking these simple precautions, we can all contribute to a safer and more enjoyable summer on the water,” adds Cpl. Allison Konsmo. “The Kelowna RCMP encourages everyone to have fun responsibly and make water safety a habit.”
Yesterday (June 2, 2025) an identified man’s body was pulled from Okanagan Lake after being discovered in the water near City Park.
