Before you dive in, know the risks: FortisBC reminds the public about dam safety

Jun 22, 2026

Residents and visitors advised to stay safe around dams and waterways this summer

KELOWNA, B.C.—June 22, 2026: As British Columbians prepare for the Canada Day holiday and the start of a busy summer recreation season, FortisBC is reminding residents and visitors to stay safe around dams, reservoirs and generating stations across the Kootenays.

As more people head outdoors to enjoy activities such as boating, fishing and swimming, FortisBC is encouraging everyone to understand the risks around waterways near dams and to follow all posted safety signs and restrictions.

“Whether you're fishing from shore, paddling with friends or spending the day on the lake, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and respect restricted areas around dams,” said Ada Nadison, program manager, public safety at FortisBC. “Water conditions can change quickly, often without warning, and understanding the risks can help keep you and your loved ones safe.”

Water levels and flows near dams can change rapidly as part of normal operations, creating hazards that may not always be visible. Strong currents, undertows, and floating debris can also pose risks to people enjoying nearby waterways.

While most people enjoy local waterways safely, FortisBC notes that unsafe activity can occur near dam infrastructure, including swimming and fishing in restricted areas, building shoreline campfires and entering spillway areas.

“It only takes a moment for conditions to change near dams, and what can seem safe at first can quickly become dangerous,” Nadison added. “We want everyone to come home safely at the end of the day, and that starts with staying well clear of restricted areas.”

To help stay safe around dams and waterways, FortisBC encourages the public to:

• Stay out of restricted areas and obey all warning signs, fences, markers and gates.
• Remain outside of all safety booms, buoys and other barriers.
• Be aware that water levels and currents can change quickly and unexpectedly.
• Turn around well before reaching a dam when boating, kayaking, canoeing or paddleboarding.
• Avoid shoreline areas where rising water levels could leave you stranded.
• Never stand, tie or anchor a boat below a dam.
• Keep a safe distance from waterways that may have unstable or slippery banks.
• Follow all Canadian Coast Guard regulations and safe boating practices when on the water.
• Supervise children at all times when near water.

Where there is water, there is always a risk of drowning. FortisBC encourages everyone to exercise caution, understand their comfort level around water and make safety a priority when enjoying the outdoors this summer.

For more information about staying safe around dams, visit fortisbc.com/damsafety.

Water levels near dams can change quickly and without notice. Always stay alert, keep a safe distance and follow all posted safety signage.

Media contact