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July 25 is World Drowning Prevention Day – Parks Canada

Parks Canada is deeply saddened by the tragic drowning in Waskesiu Lake on July 14, 2024. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the individual, and with those who responded to the incident. This is a somber reminder of the risks of drowning in open water.

Knowing how to prevent and prepare for emergencies on the water, and what to do if one occurs, may save your life. Plan ahead and get the most out of your next water adventure.

Do your part, be water smart:

• Take the essentials and share a trip plan with a trusted family member or friend. Make sure you match your adventure with your ability level, knowledge, equipment and the conditions that day.
• Complete a pre-departure checklist and take a boating safety course to learn how to avoid potential dangers and operate pleasure crafts safely.
• Always wear a certified life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) properly. Lifejackets are like seat belts – they only work if you wear them, and wear them properly.
• There are no lifeguards at Prince Albert National Park. Even in a boat, stay close to the shore. Children and weak swimmers must be supervised at all times when they are in or around water. If you are not "within arms' reach" of your children, you have gone too far.
• Check the weather before you leave and be prepared for sudden changes – strong winds can turn the water from serene to dangerous quickly.
• Be prepared to self-rescue should any boat, canoe or kayak capsize. Help may not be nearby.
• Transport Canada requires minimum safety equipment on all types of recreational watercraft – including boats, canoes, paddleboards and kayaks.
• Hypothermia happens quickly. Even in the summer, lakes can be cold. Watch for symptoms, including shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness and low energy.

Boating

• Do not drink and boat. Boating under the influence is illegal.
• Failure to comply with Transport Canada Small Vessel Regulations could result in penalties or being required to remove your vessel from the water until requirements are met.
• Ensure the vessel is registered with the registration numbers properly displayed. Only properly licensed persons may operate the vessel. Operate the vessel in a safe, lawful manner.
• Visit STARTboating for boat safety information in Mandarin, Cantonese, Hindi and Tagalog.

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Media inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Know before you go – Parks Canada

Thank you for subscribing to the Prince Albert National Park newsletter. We look forward to sharing updates directly into your inbox. If you’re interested in updates on science and conservation or fire information don’t forget to subscribe.

Road closures

The north Spruce River bridge on Highway 263 is closed after sustaining damage due to high water levels from record rainfall in June 2024.

The closure is in effect between Spruce River Highlands Trailhead from the north, and Sandy (Halkett) Lake parking lot from the south.

There is a similar closure for the Sturgeon River Bridge and Westside Trail Access.

Prince Albert National Park remains open and is accessible via Highway 264 and Highway 2. Updates are available on social media (Facebook and X).

Freight Tait Springs Trailhead and parking lot are closed to public access.

• To access the Sandy (Halkett) Lake campground, Elk trail, Paspiwin and Hunters trail, enter the south of the park through the south gate on Highway 263.
• All other trails, campgrounds and amenities are accessible via Highway 264 and Highway 2. Some backcountry bridges may have experienced damage from flooding and may be impassable. Be vigilant on the trail and be prepared to turn around.

Spending the weekend in Prince Albert National Park? Here are 5 things to know before you go!

Whether you are a hiker, cyclist or beach lover (or all three!), there is always something fun to do in Prince Albert National Park. A great trip starts with being informed and prepared. Follow these 5 tips for a safe and enjoyable trip:

Tip #1: Plan ahead

Be prepared for wherever adventure takes you. Pack essential items, share a trip plan with family or friends, know how to use your equipment and check the weather before you leave. Not sure what to include in a trip plan? Use the AdventureSmart trip planning app to get started.

Visit the Prince Albert National Park website and follow us on social media for park updates (Facebook and X), trail conditions and trip inspiration.

Tip #2: Arrive early

When the lake calls, Saskatchewanians answer! Prince Albert National Park’s entry gates and campground kiosks can be busy on summer weekends. Avoid the lines and arrive Friday morning, or the night before, to beat the rush.

Note: Waskesiu is especially busy on Canada Day. If you are attending the parade on July 1, arrive before 10:00 am to avoid lineups at the gates and find a parking spot.

Tip #3: Protect park waters

Parks Canada needs your help to protect park waterways from aquatic invasive species! Make it a habit to Clean Drain Dry your watercrafts and water-related equipment before and after each visit to Prince Albert National Park. Yes, that includes life jackets, floaties and stand-up paddleboards! For boat users, remember to pull the plug every time you move your watercraft between waterbodies.

Tip #4: Be safe on the water

Planning to be on the water this weekend? Prepare for the unexpected! Safety on the water for you and your guests is your responsibility. Visitors should be self-reliant when visiting Prince Albert National Park, including on the water. Take the following steps to keep every lake adventure a safe one:

• Wear certified life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFD) when on water.
• In the event of any life-threatening (emergency) situation on the water, call Parks Canada Dispatch at 1-877-852-3100. Response times may vary.
• Keep recommended survival items and required safety equipment on board in case help cannot get to you immediately.
• Check the weather before and during your trip – watercraft operators are often stranded by storms, wind or waves.
• If your watercraft is motorized, always be sure it is full of fuel and has been properly serviced.

Tip #5: Be wild smart

Seeing wildlife in their natural habitat is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Help keep wildlife wild:

• Give them space! Wild animals can react if threatened, surprised or to protect their young. Stay alert and know what to do to avoid an encounter.
• Slow down, but do not stop. Wildlife that are comfortable around people and roadsides are at greater risk of being hit by cars. Be careful driving in the park and watch for wildlife crossing the road, especially at night.
• Keep pets on leash and under physical control at all times. This keeps you, your pet and wildlife safe. Off-leash pets can provoke wildlife, which could injure you, your pet, other visitors or wildlife.
• Do not feed wildlife. It is illegal to feed or disturb wildlife in national parks. This is for your safety and theirs.
• Keep picnic and campsites clean. Never leave scented items or food alone, even for a minute. Scented items include food (including pet food), toiletries, dirty dishes, garbage and even empty coolers. All these must be secured when not in use, in something like a vehicle, hard-sided trailer, bear-proof food locker, bear-resistant canister or elevated food cache.

Report wildlife encounters or dead animals to Parks Canada Dispatch 24-hours a day: 1-877-852-3100.

Media inquiries

Prince Albert National Park
panp-pnpamedia@pc.gc.ca

Prince Albert National Park Fire ban issued – Parks Canada

A fire ban is in place for Prince Albert National Park due to the elevated fire danger. Lighting or having fires is strictly prohibited.

Why?

The decision to implement a fire ban is based on an assessment of local fire hazards, current and forecasted weather conditions, the amount of moisture in vegetation, the regional wildfire situation and the availability of responders and equipment.

This fire ban helps ensure the safety of visitors and residents, and for the protection of critical infrastructure.

Where?

The fire ban includes the townsite of Waskesiu, all front and backcountry campgrounds, and day-use areas.

When?

The fire ban will be lifted when conditions allow.

What?

This fire ban includes all open fires.

What is prohibited during the fire ban:

• Wood or briquette campfires
• Wood, charcoal or briquette barbecues
• Indoor fireplaces and outdoor wood-burning stoves (including cooking shelters and residences,)
• Turkey fryers
• Tiki torches and Other devices with a solid fuel (coal, wood pellets etc.)

What is permitted during the fire ban*:

• Portable propane fire pits (prohibited at overflow campgrounds)
• Gas or propane stoves and barbeques designed for cooking or heating
• Propane or gas-fueled lanterns (enclosed flame)

* provided all of the above are under direct supervision, have a valve to readily turn off the flame and certified by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

While we cannot avoid lighting-caused wildfires, we can avoid human-caused fires. Please do your part to keep our communities and first responders safe by not lighting fires during the fire ban. Always properly dispose of cigarettes and other combustible items.

If you see any wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke, please report it to 911 or Parks Canada Dispatch at 877-852-3100.

For up to date information, please visit the Important Bulletins page ; Facebook or X.

Inquiries
Prince Albert National Park
panp-fire@pc.gc.ca