Three paddleboarders rescued in Bow River rescue near Edworthy Park
Bow River rescue: Three paddleboarders were pulled from the Bow River near Edworthy Park on July 1, 2025; Calgary Fire warns to avoid high, fast flows.
A Calgary Fire Department (CFD) crew pulled three paddleboarders to safety from the Bow River downstream of Edworthy Park on the morning of July 1, 2025, in what officials called a close call.
The Bow River rescue occurred shortly before noon when crews located one adult and two youths clinging to a cluster of trees amid strong currents.
Two aquatic rescue jet boats were launched and all three people were brought to shore; their paddleboards and other gear were also recovered.
Rescue response and immediate outcome
CFD crews responded quickly after a report of people in the water, locating the group holding onto submerged river-side debris.
Rescuers deployed two jet boats to reach the occupants and guide them safely to the riverbank, where medical assessment found no injuries.
Officials emphasized that while all three were wearing life jackets, the incident still qualified as a "close call" because of the river’s force and the hazards beneath the surface.
River flow measurements and advisory status
At the time of the incident the Bow River’s flow rate exceeded 500 cubic metres per second, a figure CFD said was almost double the threshold for issuing a river safety advisory.
The department had already issued a boating advisory the previous day, urging people to avoid all boating and water activities on both the Bow and Elbow Rivers.
CFD warned that high flow rates were expected to continue through the coming week, maintaining elevated risk for recreational users.
Hidden hazards that make paddleboarding dangerous
Calgary Fire officials described several dangers that make fast-flowing rivers particularly hazardous for paddleboarders, kayakers and others.
Rapid currents can push paddlers into trees, bridge pillars and other fixed objects, while cold water and submerged debris increase the risk of being trapped or pinned.
Officials noted that floating debris and undercut banks can create unpredictable conditions that even experienced paddlers may not anticipate.
Public messaging ahead of summer events and tourism
CFD public information officer Alex Kwan reminded residents that the end of the school year and summer events bring more people to the city’s rivers.
With the Stampede period approaching and higher visitor numbers expected, the department emphasized the need for heightened caution around waterways.
The advisory specifically urged anyone walking near rivers — including those with dogs or small children — to keep clear of fast water and unstable banks.
Advice for recreational users and pet owners
Emergency services recommend staying off the Bow and Elbow Rivers until the river safety advisory is lifted and flows return to safe levels.
Wearing a life jacket remains important, but it is not a guarantee of safety when currents are strong or when paddlers are swept into obstacles.
People should secure pets, avoid entering the water to attempt rescues and call 911 immediately if they see someone in distress.
The Bow River rescue near Edworthy Park serves as a stark reminder that even routine recreational activities can turn dangerous when river conditions change rapidly, and Calgary Fire Department officials say the boating advisory will remain in effect until conditions are reassessed and deemed safe.
