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Water & Ice Safety Hub

Stay informed. Stay Prepared. Stay Safe.

Whether you’re swimming, paddling, fishing, or simply enjoying the beauty of our lake, safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Check Current Lake Status

Current Flag System

The flag system provides general information about current lake conditions and potential risks. It should be used as a guide only and not as a replacement for personal judgement, awareness, or caution.

View Amenities Status
GREEN FLAGS

Conditions are considered suitable for lake use.

Residents may enjoy the lake at their own discretion. Always use caution and be aware that conditions can change.

YELLOW FLAGS

Conditions may require additional awareness and caution.

The lake remians open, but users should review current advisories and assess risks before participating in water or ice-related activities. 

RED FLAGS

Conditions pose a significant safety concern.

Lake access is restricted until further notice. Please refer to the Auburn Bay Residents Association website for updates and further details.

Seasonal Safety Topics

Important safety information for all seasons. Click a topic to learn more. 

Summer Water Safety

Tips for safely enjoying the lake in warmer months.

Watercraft & Paddling Safety

Stay safe on the water with proper equipment and smart practices.

Lifejacket Safety & More!

Lifejackets save lives. Learn when & how to wear one properly.

Winter Ice Safety

Understand ice conditions and how to stay safe during winter activities.

Weather & Environment

Be aware of changing conditions that can impact lake safety.

Water Safety Wednesday Resource Library

Each week during the summer, ABRA shares important safety reminders on social media. Browse our past topics anytime for helpful tips and information.

It’s Water Safety Wednesday!
 
We know it’s been a long winter, and with the warmer weather, it’s tempting to head straight for the lake.
 
But even on sunny days, the water is still very cold this time of year.
 
Taking it slow around the water and being mindful of conditions can make a big difference early in the season.
 
This year, we’ll also be introducing an updated flag system to help communicate lake conditions more clearly: 🔴🟡🟢
 
Information about the updated flag colours and their meanings can be founda at the top of this page.
 
We’ll be sharing Water Safety Wednesday tips each week from now until the end of summer to help keep our community safe 💙
 
Let’s look out for each other.
It’s Water Safety Wednesday!
 
As the weather warms up and more families head toward the lake, it’s a good reminder that active supervision around water matters at every age.
 
Kids can move quickly near shorelines, docks, and play areas, especially when excitement kicks in.
 
👀 Staying nearby, minimizing distractions, and keeping little ones within reach can make all the difference.
 
We’ll be sharing Water Safety Wednesday tips each week throughout the summer to help keep our community safe around the water 💙
It’s Water Safety Wednesday!
 
As more families head back to the lake this summer, it’s a great time to remember that lifejackets are an important part of staying safe around the water for all ages and abilities.
 
Even strong swimmers can be affected by cold water, fatigue, waves, and changing lake conditions.
 
🦺 Lifejackets are mandatory when using ABRA watercraft and are highly recommended when using personal watercraft or spending time in and around the water (See City of Calgary Bylaw #9084).
 
To help make lake days safer and more accessible, ABRA has lifejacket loaner stations located throughout the beach area, with additional stations available at the Boathouse.
 
Lifejackets are available in a variety of sizes and can be borrowed free of charge while visiting the lake.
 
As ABRA Summer Camps begin incorporating lake activities for the first time this year, all participants will be required to wear lifejackets during water activities, regardless of swimming ability.
 
👀 Phones down. Eyes up.
🦺 Lifejackets on.
 
We’ll continue sharing Water Safety Wednesday tips throughout the summer to help keep our community safe around the water 💙
It’s time for Water Safety Wednesday again!
 
Not every lake day looks the same 🌊
 
Wind, weather, water temperature, and visibility can all affect lake conditions throughout the day, sometimes more quickly than people realize.
 
Before heading to the beach or out on the water, take a moment to check current conditions, posted signage, and beach flags.
 
While a green flag may indicate that the beach is open, but it’s still important to stay aware of changing weather and water conditions while enjoying the lake.
 
Don’t forget – Phones down. Eyes up.
 
We’ll continue sharing Water Safety Wednesday tips throughout the summer to help keep our community safe around the water 💙
Water Safety Wednesday
 
Lake hazards aren’t always obvious 👀
 
Drop-offs, changing depths, underwater debris, weeds, and reduced visibility can all affect lake conditions — even in familiar areas.
 
Before heading into the water:
🌊 Take a moment to observe your surroundings
👣 Enter feet first in unfamiliar areas
🛟 Stay close to shore and know your limits
 
Conditions can change throughout the season, so staying aware around the water can make a big difference.
 
And don’t forget.. Phones down. Eyes up.
 
We’ll continue sharing Water Safety Wednesday tips throughout the summer to help keep our community safe around the water 💙

Water Safety for Every Age & Stage

Parents

100% of drowning deaths among children under 5 occur when supervision is absent or distracted.

Drowning is one of the leading causes of injury-related death among children in Canada, and children aged 9 and younger account for nearly 80% of drowning-related emergency department visits.

Active supervision is the best layer of protection. Stay within arm’s reach of young children when they are in or near the water.

Swimming lessons, lifejackets, and active adult supervision all play important roles in keeping children safe around water.

Teens
Did You Know?

Nearly 30% of water-related deaths among teens and young adults involve alcohol.

Confidence in the water does not eliminate risk. Avoid alcohol around water and always participate in activities with a buddy.

Men
Did You Know?

Nearly 80% of drowning victims in Canada are men between the ages of 50 and 64.

Many drowning victims never intended to enter the water. Wearing a lifejacket and preparing for changing conditions can save lives.

Seniors
Did You Know?

Adults aged 65+ consistently represent some of the highest-risk age groups for drowning in Canada.

Swimming with a companion, being aware of health conditions, and avoiding swimming alone can help reduce the risk.

Boaters
Did You Know?

More than 80% of fatal drownings occur when people are not wearing a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD).

The best lifejacket is the one you’re wearing. Ensure everyone on board has a properly fitted lifejacket and wears it throughout the day.

And don’t forget, it’s a bylaw in city too!

Winter
Did You Know?

Ice conditions can vary significantly across a single body of water. The Lifesaving Society emphasizes that no ice is ever completely risk-free, regardless of thickness.

Always assess conditions independently and remember that weather, snow cover, and water movement can weaken ice unexpectedly.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER

USE AT YOUR OWN RISK

Members and guests use the lake, park and facility at their own risk. The ABRA is a non-lifeguarded facility. 

CONDITIONS MAY CHANGE

The flag system is intended as a general safety resource and should not replace personal judgment or independent assessment of conditions. Ice conditions, water quality, weather, and other hazards may change rapidly without notice. 

LIABILITY NOTICE

The ABRA assumes no liability for injury, loss, damage, or incidents related to lake use or reliance on the flag system.