Beach Attendants Start at NWT’s Busiest Beach Tomorrow

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Blog Entries

June 20, 2019

As we prepare to mark the summer solstice – and Yellowknife’s Long Lake beach gets busy with residents and parks users, ITI Beach Attendants will be on hand to help keep them safe.

Beach patrols begin Friday June 21st to coincide with the National Indigenous Peoples’ Day long weekend and the first concentrated weekend of water fun and activity. Attendants will be on hand daily from 9:30am-8:30pm through the September long weekend.

Not all beaches have attendants – and even when they are present – we all have a role to play in beach safety.  The best ways to ensure a fun, safe summer is to be aware, informed – and come to the beach prepared.

Here are some tips on staying safe at lakes and rivers across the NWT this summer.

  • Beachgoers under the age of 12 should be accompanied by someone over the age of 16.
  • Children 7 and under should always be within arm's reach of a caregiver over the age of 16 while playing in and near water.
  • Swimmers under 11 years of age should be accompanied by someone over the age of 16 while in the water.
  • Work together to watch for hazards and talk about swimming conditions before wading in. Everyone should wear a lifejacket while boating and inexperienced swimmers should wear one when playing in or near water.
  • Always be aware of where they're playing and what they are doing.

Just like with any outdoor activities, it is important to also stay hydrated by drinking at least a half a cup of water for every half hour out in the sun and to stay protected by reapplying sunscreen every two hours. By being informed and proactive, you and your kids will have a fun, safe summer.

Investments in safety are an integral part of the GNWT’s delivery of world-class parks for use by visitors and residents alike.