People turn to Wascana Lake in midst of summer heat

The dog days of summer are here.

The temperature is rising across the province, and people are doing whatever they can to stay cool.

In the Queen City, people are turning to Regina’s largest body of water, Wascana Lake. Although you can’t go in the lake, you can go on it in canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards.

Devri Robertson is the President of the Board at Wascana Canoe and Kayak Rentals. She said business is starting to pick up with the warmer weather.

“The spring has been actually quite cool, and then lots of rain. So, our rentals had been down, but with this last little bit of hot weather, we’ve seen them definitely spike up,” said Robertson. “We’re getting some families, also just people who, you know, are coming out to enjoy time on the lake.”

The concept of paddling a canoe in the hot sun doesn’t sound like it would cool you off, but Robertson said it’s shockingly effective.

“Surprisingly, it tends to be a little bit cooler on the water, especially if there’s like a light breeze. Most of the time, you’re kind of splashing, so you’re getting a little bit of water and a little bit of movement. And so, it does tend to be a little bit cooler out on the water. As long as you’re moving!” added Robertson.

There have been a number of drownings in the province in the past couple of weeks. Robertson said that although it’s a no-swimming zone, they do have safety measures in place in case of an emergency.

“There’s actually a bylaw that you’re not supposed to go swimming. Obviously, we do have people who tip by accident, and that’s okay. But swimming is usually discouraged,” said Robertson.

“Everybody who rents needs to wear a life jacket, so we provide those to everybody who rents. We also have safety kits in the boats. As well, we also have somebody who’s on staff who can use a motorboat,” said Robertson. “So, if you did have somebody who was out there who was in trouble … our staff would run out and help there.”

“We would love to have people come out and experience Wascana Lake from the water.”