Harbour Pool Continues Water Safety Efforts with Lifejacket Loaner Station

The City of Fort Saskatchewan, in partnership with the Lifesaving Society, is proud to continue its commitment to water safety with the return of the Lifejacket Loaner Station at Harbour Pool. This initiative, part of the Lifesaving Society’s WaterSmart® program, supports drowning prevention and encourages safe water practices throughout the community.

Background

With the North Saskatchewan River running through the heart of Fort Saskatchewan and access to countless lakes across the province, water-based recreation is a big part of summer. Unfortunately, it also comes with serious risks. According to the Lifesaving Society, Alberta averages 30 drowning deaths and 180 non-fatal drownings annually. These preventable incidents can have lasting impacts on families and communities.

About the Program

The Lifejacket Loaner Station will be available from May 16 to September 4, 2025, offering free access to lifejackets in a variety of sizes for infants, children, youth, and adults. The station will be located outside Harbour Pool and will be open during reception desk hours seven days a week.

Key Features:

• Free and Accessible: Lifejackets are available at no cost to anyone who needs them.
• Simple Borrowing System: A quick sign-in/sign-out process keeps it easy.
• Clean and Safe: All lifejackets are inspected and cleaned after each use.
• Educational Materials: Resources will help users choose the right size and learn how to wear lifejackets properly.

Protecting Our Most Vulnerable

Young children between the ages of 1 and 4 remain at the highest risk of drowning. The Lifejacket Loaner Station is especially focused on helping families stay safe by making safety gear available and encouraging responsible water habits.

“We want everyone to enjoy our river valley and surrounding lakes, but to do so safely,” said Mayor Gale Katchur. “By removing barriers to lifejackets, this program plays an important role in preventing tragedy and promoting water safety in our community.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to make use of the Lifejacket Loaner Station and practice safe boating, including avoiding alcohol while on the water and taking certified boating safety courses.

Learn More

For hours of operation and additional water safety initiatives, visit fortsask.ca/Swim.
 

Fort Saskatchewan, located just 15 minutes northeast of Edmonton along the North Saskatchewan River, is a vibrant hub for economic, recreational, and cultural activities. Nestled in the centre of Alberta’s Industrial Heartland and home to nearly 30,000 residents, the city offers many amenities, including a multi-use fitness facility, an aquatics centre, 80 km of trails, and high-performance arenas and fields. Cultural highlights include a 500-seat performing arts theatre, historic sites, a museum, and a replica of the 1875 Northwest Mounted Police Fort. Fort Saskatchewan is dedicated to fostering an inclusive community, providing a blend of experiences that welcomes everyone.

The city is situated in Treaty 6 Territory and Métis Nation of Alberta District 11. We recognize that we stand upon land that carries the footsteps of many Indigenous Peoples, including the Nehiyawak, Dene, Blackfoot, Saulteaux, Nakota Sioux, and Métis. The City honours the First Peoples of this land and is committed to fostering reconciliation through relationship building, knowledge gathering, and education.