Saskatoon city officials remind people not to swim in river

With summer officially here, Saskatoon city officials are reminding people they can’t beat the heat in the South Saskatchewan River as bylaw 4433 prohibits swimming in it.

“The South Saskatchewan River is unpredictable and dangerous,” Assistant Chief Wayne Rodger wrote in a news release. “With changing currents and water levels, both the bank edges and riverbed are considered extremely hazardous. ”

The weir also adds a dangerous element to the river because it alters the flow of water and produces a powerful backlash of water capable of trapping people and objects.

While swimming is off-limits, boats are allowed — as long as everyone using one wears a life jacket.