Water safety
Bruce Peninsula National Park
If you’re planning to swim at Bruce Peninsula National Park or Fathom Five National Marine Park, read this first.
What are the risks?
- Swimming is unsupervised at all park locations. You are responsible for your own safety.
- Rocky shorelines are slippery when wet.
- There may be rocks, other swimmers and scuba divers below the water surface that you can’t see.
- The water is cold, even during summer.
- The water depth can drop off quickly and be very deep, even at sandy beaches.
- Weather and water conditions can change quickly.
- The water can be very rough (wavy). Strong waves may pull you away from shore or smash you up against the rocks.
- Off-shore winds can blow your inflatables way out.
- Emergency rescue may take a long time (e.g. an hour or more) at many park locations.
- Cell phone reception is not reliable in many parts of these parks.
What can you do to stay safe?
- Never swim alone. Swim with a buddy.
- Watch your children at all times. Never leave them alone in or near water.
- Know your swimming limitations and stay within them. Don’t try to keep up with more experienced or stronger swimmers.
- Weak swimmers and children should wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD).
- Stay out of the water when waves are high.
- Swim close to shore in shallow water.
- Look below. Don’t jump or dive in shallow or rocky areas.
- Don’t consume drugs or alcohol before or while swimming.
- In an emergency, dial 911.
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