Partnering to improve River Valley safety

What’s under the High Level Bridge could hurt you. 

That’s why Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) is working with Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) to improve safety in the Oldman River where it meets the iconic High Level Bridge. 

LFES is leading safety training at the base of the bridge. This area is among the most challenging places to access in Lethbridge. Fast-moving water, steep terrain and railway infrastructure make it especially dangerous during an emergency.

To prepare for these risks, LFES is sending its Water Rescue Team and Rope Rescue Team to train in this high-risk area.

“This collaboration with CPKC, who own and manage the bridge, gives our teams the chance to train in a high-risk, high-consequence environment,” says Greg Adair, Chief of Fire and EMS with LFES. “It helps us respond faster and better while keeping people and infrastructure safe.”

The location has been the site of past safety concerns, including unauthorized rope swings and debris. As part of the training, LFES crews will proactively remove rope swings and debris to prevent injuries. 

“The goal is to help our teams get to know the area better and work together more effectively in a real emergency,” says Wes Borland, Deputy Chief of Training with LFES. 

“This training helps us prepare for HALO events – high acuity, low occurrence scenarios,” says Craig Dillman, Firefighter-Paramedic and LFES Rope Rescue Team Lead. “If one of these events were to come in, we can respond quicker and safer, having already practiced it.” 

LFES is also reminding residents to stay away from the area beneath the High Level Bridge. 

“People may not realize how dangerous it is,” says Charles Schoening, Firefighter-Paramedic and Water Rescue Team Lead. “The water moves fast. There are sharp objects and debris under the surface. Please stay away – it’s not safe at the base of the High Level Bridge.”

Throughout the year, CPKC works with local emergency responders, local law enforcement, government agencies and communities to raise awareness for public rail safety to build safer communities. 

This training is one more way LFES is working with partners to keep Lethbridge safe, ready and prepared for any emergency.  

Each year, LFES receives reports of individuals jumping into the river from the low-level girders of the High Level Bridge. This is private property and extremely dangerous. Beneath the surface lies barbed wire, concrete with exposed rebar, large rocks, tree debris and sudden drop-offs – all of which can entangle, injure or trap you. 

Always remember that where there’s water, there’s a risk! Check out more information about water safety and tips on how to safely float the Oldman River.

For emergencies, always call 9-1-1. 

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat with 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.