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Starting today, Friday, June 27, lifeguards are back on duty at Port Stanley’s Main Beach. Lifeguards will be on-site daily to supervise designated swim areas until Labour Day weekend in September.

“Our beaches are a treasured part of summer in Central Elgin, and we’re pleased to welcome back our dedicated team of lifeguards for the summer season,” said Mayor Andrew Sloan. “We urge all residents and visitors to respect the safety guidelines, swim within the designated areas, and look out for one another while making great memories at our beautiful waterfront this summer.”

Main Beach Lifeguard Hours

  • Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

In the event of lightning, guards will be off the beach from 30 minutes from the time of the last lightning/thunder strike, patrons are similarly advised to seek safe shelter during this period.
Lifeguards are easily identified by their red and black uniforms and are stationed at five lifeguard towers, as well as the Central Elgin Beach Rescue Office, located next to GT’s in the Main Beach washroom block.

Lifeguards are only stationed at Main Beach. There are no lifeguards on duty at Erie Rest, Little Beach, or Pumphouse Beach. However, lifesaving equipment such as ring buoys and reaching poles is available at those locations.

Central Elgin encourages all beachgoers to swim only in designated areas, which are marked with white buoys in the water, and to always use caution when near the lake.

Flag System for Swimming Conditions

Lifeguards use a coloured flag system to identify swimming conditions at Main Beach.

  • Green Flag – Good conditions; there are no unusual hazards.
  • Yellow Flag – Moderate conditions, swim with caution.
  • Red Flag – Danger! Swimming not advised.
  • Double Red - Hazard! No swimming permitted.

If there is no flag flying, there are no lifeguards on duty.

Beach and Water Safety Tips

The Municipality of Central Elgin encourages everyone to have fun and stay safe this summer by following these safety tips:

  • Always supervise and stay within arm’s reach of children who are in or near the water.
  • Be alert to flags, signs and hazard symbols that indicate high risk zones.
  • Never swim alone or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Know your limits - swim within your ability and wear an appropriately sized lifejacket.
  • Stay hydrated, use sunscreen (SPF 30+), and take breaks from the sun.
  • Never dive into the lake or jump in from the pier.
  • Be alert - weather and water conditions can change quickly.
  • In case of emergency, call 911 immediately.

Know the Risk: Rip Currents

Rip currents are fast moving channels of water. Rip currents often form when water is pushed towards shore from wave action and the built-up volume is forced to break through the oncoming waves, creating a channel that moves away from shore.
Importantly, rip currents can also form around permanent structures (such as Piers) or can occur suddenly, often following large waves. Rip currents are highly prevalent in the Great Lakes, including Lake Erie.

If caught in a rip current:

  • Don’t fight the current.
  • Swim parallel out of the current, then on an angle to shore.
  • If you’re unable to escape, float or tread water.
  • If you need help, call or wave for assistance.

Learn more about rip currents: https://www.ripcurrents.org/

Boating and Watercraft Safety

  • Everyone on board must always wear a lifejacket.
  • All powerboat operators require a Pleasure Craft License. This should be carried with you while operating all motor vessels.
  • Obey all local and international boating laws.
  • Operate powerboats responsibly – don't speed close to shore, exercise caution when operating a boat near a swim zone or a beach. Swimmers may stray outside the designated swim zones and are difficult to spot while at high speeds.
  • Be aware of the wake from your boat. Nearby swimmers and other small craft may be overwhelmed by the waves.
  • Never operate a boat while impaired – it's illegal and impacts your driver's licence in Ontario.

Water Quality Monitoring

Beach water quality is monitored regularly at Main Beach, Little Beach, and Erie Rest Beach. For current updates and advisories, visit: Beaches | Southwestern Public Health

If E. Coli bacteria levels exceed provincial standards, Southwestern Public Health will issue an advisory on swimming at that beach. The beach will remain open for activities like sunbathing, walking and volleyball even if an advisory has been issued.

Find more information about beaches in Central Elgin.