High water warning

People are being warned of high water levels and fast moving currents on the North Saskatchewan River after fire and rescue workers were called to several river rescues this weekend.

"We've had a number of calls," said Edmonton Fire Rescue Station #6, Captain Gary Allan. "Yesterday was quite busy with 3 calls."

Two of those calls were for capsized canoes.

Jason Hayes, who's been taking canoeists out on the river for the past 15 years, said two of the people who needed rescuing were his customers.

"They ended up sideways against one of the bridge pylons and caught up in some logs that were stuck there," Hayes said. "They managed to scramble to safety on top of the logs."

According to Hayes, the water levels rise at least twice a year, and it starts with spring run-off. One way to stay safe is to be aware.

"As the river rises, there is debris," said Hayes. "You want to spot your landing sites way in advance, and you want to make sure you're well prepared to land there."

Alberta Environment expects the levels will go down over the next few days. But in the meantime, those who use the river are told to use caution.