Nitro’s May Long Weekend Water Safety Adventure 🌊🐾

Ride the Wave Into Summer — Safely!

As Alberta heads into the May long weekend, many families are getting ready to head to the lake, river, campground, pool, or boat launch for the first big outdoor weekend of the season. While warmer weather brings excitement and adventure, it’s also the perfect time to refresh our water safety knowledge before summer begins.

That’s why Nitro is officially stepping into a new role:

Meet Nitro — AHASTI’s Safety Ambassador 🐶

Nitro has always cared about helping others stay safe and healthy, and now he’s taking his mission beyond first aid and CPR to promote everyday safety awareness for families, kids, and communities across Alberta.

This May long weekend, Nitro is helping spread the word about an incredible free public education program from the Lifesaving Society called the Water Smart® Advocate Course.

What is the Water Smart® Advocate Course?

The Water Smart® Advocate Course is a free online learning opportunity designed to help Canadians become more informed about water safety risks and prevention strategies.

The course covers important topics including:

• Cold water awareness

• Boating and lifejacket safety

• Supervision around water

• Ice and river safety

• Drowning prevention

• Safe decision-making near water

It’s designed for everyday people — parents, teens, grandparents, outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and anyone who spends time near water.

Why This Matters in Alberta

Many people underestimate how dangerous Alberta’s water can be in the spring and early summer.

Even on warm days:

• Lakes and rivers remain extremely cold

• Fast-moving currents can be unpredictable

• Cold water shock can happen within seconds

• Inflatable toys and floaties are not lifesaving devices

• Alcohol and water activities are a dangerous mix

Education saves lives — and small safety choices can make a huge difference.

Nitro’s Water Safety Tips 🐾

Before heading out this long weekend, Nitro wants everyone to remember:

• Wear a properly fitted lifejacket when boating

• Keep children within arm’s reach near water

• Never swim alone

• Watch for changing river conditions and currents

• Avoid distractions when supervising children

• Learn basic first aid and CPR skills

• Respect the water — even experienced swimmers can get into trouble

Let’s Make This a Safe Summer

At AHASTI, we believe safety education should be practical, approachable, and accessible to everyone. Programs like the Water Smart® Advocate Course are a fantastic way for families and communities to build awareness before summer activities begin.

Nitro encourages everyone to take a few minutes to complete the free course and help make Alberta’s waterways safer for everyone this season.

Stay safe, stay smart, and enjoy the sunshine! ☀️🌊🐶

—Alberta Health & Safety Training Institute (AHASTI)

AHASTI Website