Lifeguards now on duty in Port Stanley, Ont. ahead of upcoming heat wave

Lifeguards are now on duty for the summer at main beach in Port Stanley, Ont. (Source: Municipality of Central Elgin)

With school out for summer and temperatures expected to soar into the 30s this week, it’s a perfect time for the Municipality of Central Elgin (MCE) to have its lifeguards on duty.

Beginning Saturday, lifeguards will supervise designated swimming areas daily until Labour Day weekend.

“Beach season is officially underway in Central Elgin, and we are happy to welcome residents and visitors back to Port Stanley’s waterfront,” Mayor Andrew Sloan said in a news release. “Whether you’re spending the day on the sand, taking a swim, or enjoying our waterfront, we encourage everyone to make safety a priority, pay attention to beach conditions, and help keep our beaches safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

The lifeguards will be stationed at five towers along main beach starting everyday at 11 a.m. and will be there until 6 p.m. on weekdays and 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

Beachgoers are reminded that there are no lifeguards on duty at Erie Rest Beach, Little Beach, or Pumphouse Beach. Lifesaving equipment, including ring buoys and reaching poles, is available at those locations.

After recent drownings in our region, MCE and the Elgin County Drowning Prevention Coalition began a lifejacket lending program during lifeguard patrol hours.

People can borrow lifejackets for free from the towers.

MCE is providing a list of guidelines for those who want to go into Lake Erie.

• Swim only in designated swimming areas marked by white buoys.

• Never swim alone or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Wear a properly fitted lifejacket and be aware of your swimming abilities.

• Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and take regular breaks from the sun.

• Never dive into the lake or jump from the pier.

• Be mindful that weather and water conditions can change quickly.

Beachgoers are also encouraged to learn about rip currents, which can occur in the Great Lakes, including Lake Erie.