Stay safe on the water this summer.

Taking simple steps can make all the difference in keeping Whistler’s water resources safe places for everyone to play. 

1. Use appropriate equipment. Inflatable boats and other water toys easily deflate and capsize and are not suitable for floating on the River of Golden Dreams.
2. Wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD).  According to federal law, you must have a Canadian approved lifejacket or PFD while in a boat, inner tube, paddle board, raft or other flotation device. The maximum fine for violation is $500.
3. Do not mix water activities and alcohol. Whistler’s rivers, lakes and beaches are public places, and the consumption of alcohol beverages is prohibited. Alcohol increases the risk of hypothermia, increases fatigue, impairs decision-making and slows reaction time.
4. Know the signs of drowning. Drowning does not typically involve screaming and waving hands, unlike the way it is often portrayed in the movies. In fact it can often be completely silent.
5. Do not litter.  Please properly dispose of inflatable boats and water toys that have deflated, along with any garbage and recycling such as bottles and cans, in the appropriate bins.
6. Obey all rules and posted signs. Whistler’s lakes, beaches and the River of Golden Dreams are not monitored by lifeguards. Be prepared for self-rescue, and never travel alone.
7. Reduce the potential of swimmer’s itch.  Wear waterproof sunscreen, avoid areas with lots of weed growth, and towel off vigorously or shower immediately after leaving the water. Learn more about swimmer’s itch and beach water quality monitoring. 
8. Watch out for boats on Green Lake and Alta Lake. Motor boating is only permitted on Green Lake and Alta Lake with speed restrictions.

River of Golden Dreams

Inflatable boats and other water toys easily deflate and capsize and are not suitable for floating on the River of Golden Dreams. Take simple steps to prepare, like using proper equipment, obeying posted signs, avoiding alcohol and knowing the signs of drowning. Be prepared for self-rescue, and never travel alone.