Nanaimo River Warning Time Again

The 'Famous' Gun Barrel

The Sign Says it All

Almost every year
the Nanaimo River claims lives!
More than 30 deaths and 45 serious injuries!

That is the sobering heading in a pamphlet I picked up at Fairways Market. I could not find the name of any person or organization responsible for producing this timely reminder, so I presume they will have no difficulty with my reproducing their pamphlet here.

Most often, the accidents which claim lives are preventable. People who swim in dangerous areas are the most at risk. Even 'strong' swimmers can be injured or killed in these areas. Young males are the typical victims because they like to take risks.

You do not have to swim to be at risk.
Even hikers and fishers have been killed at the Nanaimo River. Whether a person is swimming, hiking or fishing, the cause of death is usually by drowning when someone swims or falls into a dangerous water area.
There have also been cases of severe injuries and permanent disability caused by jumping or diving from a cliff.

The Nanaimo River has several dangerous areas.
The most dangerous are the bedrock canyon areas where the water moves very fast. In these areas, dangerous and strong currents can drag or hold a victim - even the best of simmers- under water. A victim trapped in this way may remain underwater for weeks.

Factors leading to river accidents
RISK-TAKING involves swimming or hiking in a dangerous part of the river.
NOT WEARING PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT such as lifejacket or whitewater helmet.
NO TRAINING TO SWIM IN MOVING WATER (called 'Swiftwater' training). It is noteworthy that even people with such training can be at-risk if they take unnecessary risks!

Be River Smart
Do not swim in dangerous areas.
Avoid areas that have hazards downstream.
Wear appropriate equipment.
Do not use an inner-tube or air mattress instead of a lifejacket.

For more information contact:
Nanaimo Search and Rescue Society 250-390-2595
Nanaimo RCMP 250-755-3208
Extension Volunteer Fire Department 250-754-3235