Water Safety

The Grand River is a great place for recreational activities such as swimming, fishing and paddling, but it can also be very dangerous. Water flows can change at any time, especially after a rainstorm or when the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) releases water through their dams. These changes can result in higher water flows for several days. Before heading out, always have a plan in place and tell a friend before you visit any rivers or reservoirs.

Boating or Paddling Safety

  • Check the current GRCA flows prior to heading out on the water.
  • Always wear a lifejacket and ensure it fits properly.
  • Cancel your trip or leave the water if lightning or a thunderstorm is approaching.
  • Never boat or paddle near dams as extreme currents can cause undertows. Obey all warning signage and stay upstream of any buoys or booms.
  • Follow all Boating Safety Regulations.
  • Download the Safe Boating Guide for more information.

Dykes/Dams Safety

  • Obey all dam warning signs and marked booms, buoys and fences.
  • Both small and large dams can create an undertow that can pull you under water.
  • NEVER swim, walk on, fish, or boat near a dam.

Fishing

  • Be familiar with the area you are fishing in.
  • Pay attention to hazards that may be hidden in the water.
  • Check the current GRCA flows prior to heading out to fish.
  • Leave the water if lightning or a thunderstorm is approaching.
  • Be careful on loose stone or slippery banks.
  • Always wear a lifejacket while in a boat or canoe.
  • Know where you are in relation to dams. NEVER fish near dams or other water structures.

Swimming

  • Make sure you have a swim buddy.
  • If you are an adult accompanying a child, ALWAYS keep an eye on them around water – even if they can swim.
  • Non swimmers should wear a lifejacket.
  • Wear thick soled sandals or water shoes when wading as broken glass or debris could be hidden in the sand or muddy river bottom.
  • Leave the water if lightning or a thunderstorm is approaching.
  • Know where you are in relation to dams. NEVER swim near dams or other water structures.
  • Visit the Canadian Red Cross website for more safe swimming tips.

Winter and waterways

  • Avoid all unmonitored frozen bodies of water.
  • Ice can be thin above fast-moving water.
  • Dam operators can change water flows at any time making ice on reservoirs unstable.
  • During spring run-off, banks can become extremely slippery and dangerous.
  • Visit the Ontario Power Generation for more dam safety information.