River Patrol

Current river conditions:

Water levels on the Red & Assiniboine are at or near normal for this time of year. City of Winnipeg crews are making plans to install the boat launch at St. Vital Park (weather permitting).

The  Winnipeg Police Service River Patrol reminds everyone, however, that that currents continue to be very strong and fast moving. Water temperatures are extremely cold. 

Parents, please talk to your kids about the risks. Cold-water immersion is extremely dangerous and can turn deadly in seconds.

In Case of Emergency

  1. If you see a person or animal in distress, call 911 immediately.
  2. Do not attempt a rescue yourself—leave it to trained first responders.
  3. Remember: Falling through the ice into cold, fast-moving water can be fatal.

Safety on rivers & waterways

Members of the Winnipeg Police Service River Patrol enforce federal, and provincial statutes, and City of Winnipeg by-laws within Winnipeg.

Speed limits for boaters

  • Red River - Daytime 70 kph - Night 50 kph
  • Assiniboine River - Daytime 37 kph - Night 10 kph
  • Boat Launches and docks on the Red River are designated 9 kph.

Vessel regulations, boating safety & licensing

Transport Canada develops regulations, policies, standards, procedures, and work instructions related to vessel design, construction, safety equipment and oversight.

They also provide programs and services for safety, oversight, compliance and enforcement of Canadian vessels and manufacturers of vessels and safety equipment.

Visit the Transport Canada website for information on operating vessels on all waterways. This information includes:

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