Echo Dale Swim Lake closed for the season; City to launch water safety campaign

Following the tragic incident in June that resulted in the death of a child, the swim lake at Echo Dale Regional Park will remain closed for the rest of the 2026 season. The City will continue to focus on supporting those affected by the tragedy and will await the results of an independent review being conducted by the Lifesaving Society of Alberta and NWT Branch. 

"Our thoughts remain with the family, friends, staff, and community members affected by this heartbreaking loss," said Leah Prestayko, Managing Director of Public Services. "This tragedy has had a profound impact on our community, and keeping the swim lake closed for the remainder of the season is a necessary step as we await the outcome of the independent review."

All other amenities at Echo Dale Regional Park will remain open and available to the public. 

"We know Echo Dale is a valued community amenity and a place where many residents and families create lasting summer memories - however, the safety of our residents and staff remains our highest priority” added Prestayko. “We are committed to understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident and will share information on any recommended actions arising from the review once complete.”

The City’s outdoor pools - Hill Pool and Strathcona Pool - continue to operate as normal and public swimming remains free thanks to the support of the Kinsmen Club of Medicine Hat.

Residents are thanked for their continued patience, understanding, and compassion during this difficult time.

Planned water safety campaign to continue

The City will proceed with a community-wide water safety awareness campaign that was developed prior to the incident and scheduled for launch this summer. 

The need for a campaign was identified earlier this year in response to growing concerns about drowning and water-related incidents across Canada, particularly in natural bodies of water such as lakes and rivers (Canadian Drowning Report - 2025 Edition). 

“Although drowning deaths had been declining in Canada since the 1990s, the total number increased in the 2017-2021 reporting period,” said Scott Richter, Director of Parks and Recreation. “More than 500 drowning deaths occurred in each of the last two years we have data for - 2020 and 2021 - the highest levels seen nationally since 2006.”

The water safety campaign will share practical information and reminders to help residents stay safe around pools, lakes, rivers, and other recreational bodies of water. Topics will include:

• Active supervision of children around water
• Lifejacket use and the City's lifejacket loaner program
• Safe recreation on the South Saskatchewan River
• Understanding local water conditions and hazards
• Backyard pool safety

"While no campaign can eliminate every risk, education plays an important role in preventing tragedies," added Richter. "Water recreation is an important part of summer in Medicine Hat, and we want residents to have the information they need to enjoy it safely."

Residents are encouraged to follow the City's social media channels over the coming weeks for water safety tips and resources.

For media inquiries, please contact:
media@medicinehat.ca