Two recent serious incidents at Willow River have prompted the Prince George RCMP to remind the public of general river safety.
“Rivers are unpredictable and can contain faster currents or debris that you can’t see from a tube or raft. We also need to remember that our waters stay cold, even in this heat, and this can lead to trouble swimming if you’re exposed for a long period of time,” said Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.
The RCMP are asking river rafters to do the following when trying to beat the heat:
- Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
- Avoid going anywhere alone.
- Make sure everyone in your party is wearing a personal floatation device.
- Speak to people in the community who have used the rivers before and know them well.
- Carry required safety equipment.
- Make sure to have food and water with you in case you are stranded or are out for longer than you anticipate.
On May 20th, Travis Galbraith passed away in a rafting accident on Willow River. A local fundraiser brought in nearly $45,000 for Travis’ family.
On Sunday morning, a family of eight was rescued from Willow River after their raft was damaged and they were forced to stay overnight on an island in their wet clothes.
Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
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