Both the City of Saskatoon and the Corman Park Police Service are warning locals about the dangerous river flow conditions.

The CPPS says higher water levels, faster-moving currents, and changing conditions mean everyone should stay out of the river and avoid recreational activities, including boating, paddleboarding, swimming, floating, and fishing from the shoreline.

In addition, pet owners are asked to keep their animals leashed and away from the river and shoreline.

To protect the public, Poplar Bluffs Conservation Area, Fred Heal Canoe Launch, and Paradise Beach have been closed.

Cranberry Flats Conservation Area and Chief Whitecap Park remain open; however, visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution near the river and follow all posted safety signage.

The City adds that the public boat launch beneath the Broadway Bridge and River Access points in the Meewasin Valley will be closed.

A release from the City also provided tips for those who witness someone in distress in the river:

” Call 911 immediately to report the incident, noting details about the individual, time and situation.
” Keep track of recognizable landmarks around the area where the individual was first seen in distress in the water.
” Coach the individual from the shore edge on the below noted tips for water self-rescue.

If you are in distress in the river:
” Stay calm.
” Keep your head above the water.
” Remove any heavy or bulky clothing items.
” Don’t fight the current; move with the current as you work your way to the shore edge.
Always be cautious near the river. In an emergency, call 911 immediately.