Water Safety

Rivers and reservoirs can be fun places to swim, canoe and fish. Riverside trails offer exceptional views of our scenic waterways. However, rivers and streams are a part of nature and are always changing.

Make safety your first priority when on or near the water and in our Grand River Conservation Areas and conservation lands.
River flows on the Grand River and its tributaries can vary dramatically from season to season or even from one day to the next. The spring melt or the release of water from GRCA reservoir operations can result in higher flows for several days. A major rainstorm - even one many kilometres away - can result in sudden increases in water levels that last for several days.
Plan your activity and share that information with a friend or family before you begin.

Boating and paddling safety

River flows can change quickly and without warning. Check current flows on our website.
You are responsible for your own safety. Suitability of river flows for paddling and paddling times depend on the experience and equipment of the paddler and the conditions at the time. If you are unsure about suitability, you may wish to use a canoe outfitter.
Check our reservoir levels webpage.
Dams are danger zones! Never boat or canoe near dams where there can be undertows and extreme currents. Stay upstream of any warning buoys or booms. Obey all warning signs. Learn more about safety around dams.
If your canoe trip involves portaging a dam, follow the formal portage route.
Follow Boating Safety Regulations.
Always wear a lifejacket. Make sure it fits well and is fastened properly.
Leave the water if a thunderstorm or lightning is approaching (applies to any activity in or near water).
For more information on safe boating, and to learn about federal safety regulations for paddlers, go to the Transport Canada website. There you can also download the Safe Boating Guide. The Canadian Safe Boating Council website also offers safe boating tips and information.
Visit the Ontario Power Generation website for dams and hydro stations safety information.

Swimming safety

River flows can change quickly and without warning. Check current flows on our website.
Check our reservoir levels webpage.
Dams are danger zones! Never swim near dams or other water structures where there can be undertows and extreme currents. Stay out of danger zones marked by warning buoys, booms and fences. Obey all warning signs. Learn more about safety around dams.
Swim in designated areas and stay within the buoy line.
Swim only at marked beaches or pools, and always swim with a buddy. Wear a personal floatation device.
Leave the water if a thunderstorm or lightning is approaching (applies to any activity in or near water).
Wear thick-soled shoes or sandals when wading. You may not see broken glass or debris on a sandy or muddy river bottom.
Visit the Canadian Red Cross website for swimming and water safety tips and resources.
Visit the Ontario Power Generation website for dams and hydro stations safety information.

Fishing safety

River flows can change quickly and without warning. Check current flows on our website.
Check our reservoir levels webpage.
Dams are danger zones! Never fish near dams or other water structures where there can be undertows and extreme currents. Stay out of danger zones marked by warning buoys, booms and fences. Obey all warning signs. Learn more about safety around dams.
If river flows are high, such as after a major rainfall, postpone your trip until the flows have returned to safer levels. Flows can change quickly.
Be familiar with the area where you are fishing, and be aware that there may be hazards in the water that are not visible.
Leave the water if a thunderstorm or lightning is approaching (applies to any activity in or near water).
Be extra careful on slippery or loose stone banks.
Be aware of where you are fishing in relation to GRCA dams.
Always wear a personal floatation device while in a boat or canoe on the river or a reservoir.
Wade carefully and never wade alone.
Use a wading staff and avoid wading where you cannot see the bottom.
Take extra care when the water is cold.
Visit the Ontario Power Generation website for dams and hydro stations safety information.

Winter and waterways

Stay off frozen water bodies. It may appear safe, but the ice may not be thick enough to support your weight, due to the current flowing underneath.
Dam operators may change how much water comes through a dam -- without warning -- making any ice near a dam (reservoir and river) very unstable. Learn more about safety around dams.
Be careful near riverbanks in the winter and spring, as they will be icy and slippery. As well, the banks can form a dangerous, thin 'ledge' of unstable ice
Visit the Ontario Power Generation website for dams and hydro stations safety information.

Water safety tips for kids

We published a 12-page easy-to-read booklet on water safety tips for kids. It covers river and dam safety, as well as safety when swimming, fishing and boating. Copies are available at our Administration Centre. We can also accommodate bulk orders for school classes located in the Grand River watershed. For bulk orders email Naomi Moore, Water Resources Project Coordinator.