Beaches may have serious hazards. Sudden drop-offs, sharp rocks, unpredictable weather and unexpected waves heighten the risk of swimming in a lake.
The Central Elgin Beach Rescue Service provides water safety awareness and education to all patrons in the surrounding waters off the Main Beach in Port Stanley, as well as water supervision and emergency medical response.
Follow Central Elgin Beach Rescue on Facebook and Instagram for beach updates and safety tips.
Beach Patrol Supervision
Main Beach is patrolled between the months of July through to September. 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.
It is important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty at Erie Rest, Little, or Pumphouse beaches. At these beaches, lifesaving equipment is available.
Hours of Beach Supervision
Day | Times |
---|---|
Monday |
11 a.m. - 6 p.m. |
Tuesday |
11 a.m. - 6 p.m. |
Wednesday |
11 a.m. - 6 p.m. |
Thursday |
11 a.m. - 6 p.m. |
Friday |
11 a.m. - 6 p.m. |
Saturday |
11 a.m. - 8 p.m. |
Sunday |
11 a.m. - 8 p.m. |
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.
Know the Flags
Lifeguards fly coloured flags to define the water conditions.
Flag Colour | Swim Conditions |
---|---|
Green |
Good Condition, no unusual hazards |
Yellow |
Moderate conditions, swim with caution |
Red |
Danger! Swimming not advised |
Double Red |
Hazard! Swimming not advised. |
No Flag |
No beach patrol on duty |
Beach and Water Safety Tips
Have fun and stay safe by following these beach and water safety tips: |
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Never jump in or dive from the Pier |
This is a dangerous activity and is prohibited. The Pier has the potential to create structural currents. Do not put yourself, or first responders at risk.
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Boating and Watercraft Safety Tips |
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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.
Learn more about rip currents: https://www.ripcurrents.org/ |
Beach Water Quality
Visit the Beach Water Quality page for more information