Stettler RCMP want to remind people who float along the Red Deer river, to overestimate the time it takes to go from one point to another, so you don't get stuck on the river at night, which is what happened last week to a few different groups of floaters. 

In the last two weeks, Stettler RCMP had to attend to three different calls from concerned friends and family members, saying their loved ones were supposed to be off the river by a certain time, but they weren't seen until the early morning hours. 

Those incidents occurred between Content Bridge and MacKenzie Crossing, located West and South of Stettler.  

Detachment Commander with the Stettler RCMP Sgt. Phil Penny wants people to be prepared when they are planning a float.  

“Think about these things. Do just a little bit of research, see what the river is looking like, and plan accordingly. Often times we don’t bring enough snacks, and some water to keep yourself hydrated, that type of stuff. And the cell phone, just have the ability to contact, or be contacted, so people can receive update son where you are, and reach them so they can put some of those concerns to rest.”

No one was injured in those cases, and Penny says alcohol and drugs were not a factor, just underestimating the speed of the river.

Some other tips include being mindful of the weather forecast, both during your expected float time, as well as your time of arrival, so people who pick you up can be prepared with appropriate clothing. 

It’s also important to let people know when you are going, your starting point, your destination, as well as an estimated time of arrival. 

In most cases, it’s better to arrive earlier than expected and wait for your ride home, rather than being stuck on the river at night, with little clue where you are, or how far you have to go.