As Manitobans prepare for festivities across the province this Canada Day weekend, RCMP officials are issuing timely warnings about potential hazards that often accompany the celebratory atmosphere. With temperatures expected to soar and waterways beckoning, authorities are emphasizing the need for vigilance during what historically proves to be one of the busiest—and sometimes most dangerous—weekends of the summer.
“We see a significant uptick in emergency calls during holiday weekends, particularly around water-related incidents and impaired driving,” explains Sergeant Morgan Barter of the Manitoba RCMP. “Our goal isn’t to dampen celebrations but to ensure everyone returns home safely after the festivities.”
Water safety remains a primary concern as families flock to Manitoba’s numerous lakes and rivers. Last year alone, provincial authorities responded to seven drowning incidents over the Canada Day weekend, a statistic that underscores the real risks present even during recreational activities.
Dr. Karen Lowell, an emergency medicine specialist at Winnipeg’s Health Sciences Centre, points to alarming patterns she witnesses firsthand. “Every holiday weekend brings preventable tragedies to our emergency department. The combination of alcohol, inexperience around water, and failure to use proper safety equipment creates perfect conditions for disaster.”
The RCMP’s safety campaign addresses several critical areas. For boaters, authorities stress the importance of properly fitted life jackets for all passengers, regardless of swimming ability. “A life jacket stored under a seat won’t save anyone’s life,” notes Barter. “We’re reminding boaters that having life jackets accessible isn’t enough—they need to be worn.”
Road safety also features prominently in the RCMP’s messaging. With increased traffic volume expected on provincial highways, officers will conduct enhanced checkstops targeting impaired driving throughout the weekend. Last year’s Canada Day weekend resulted in 42 impaired driving charges across Manitoba, a number authorities hope to reduce through both enforcement and education.
The safety recommendations extend to backyard celebrations as well. Fire officials warn that improper handling of fireworks contributes to numerous injuries and property damage incidents each year. “Fireworks should only be handled by sober adults who follow all manufacturer instructions,” advises Winnipeg Fire Chief Malcolm Henderson. “And always keep a water source nearby in case something goes wrong.”
For families planning outdoor activities, health officials emphasize protection against extreme heat and sun exposure. With temperatures forecasted to reach the high 20s across much of the province, staying hydrated and applying sunscreen regularly becomes crucial, especially for children and seniors.
“We want Canadians to celebrate our national holiday, but to do so responsibly,” says Barter. “Simple precautions like designating a sober driver, supervising children around water, and being weather-aware can make all the difference between a memorable weekend and a tragic one.”
Community organizations throughout Manitoba are responding by offering alternatives to alcohol-centric celebrations. The Winnipeg Community Centers Association is coordinating family-friendly events that emphasize inclusive activities without the pressures of alcohol consumption.
As Canada prepares to mark its 157th birthday, the message from authorities remains consistent: celebration and safety can—and should—coexist. The ultimate measure of a successful holiday weekend isn’t just the memories created, but ensuring everyone returns safely to create more memories in the future.
What safety precautions will you incorporate into your Canada Day celebrations this year to protect yourself and those you care about?
