Following Safety Precautions

Be safe in Prince Albert National Park as the season changes from winter to spring!

Apr 14, 2021 | 9:33 AM

The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada. To help limit the spread of COVID-19, visitors must follow the advice of public health experts and guidelines outlined by the Government of Saskatchewan at www.saskatchewan.ca while visiting or participating in any activities in Prince Albert National Park. Current provincial public health orders and restrictions include:

· Two metres physical distancing remains in place and should be observed when people from outside the household are present

· Non-medical mask wearing in indoor spaces such as the Visitor Centre is mandatory

· The use of enclosed kitchen shelters is limited to one household at a time. Please limit time spent in a kitchen shelter so other visitors have a chance to use it as well

· Outdoor gatherings may have a maximum of 10 people where there is enough space to maintain two metres between individuals who are not in the same household

During this time, weather can change abruptly in the park. Overall warming temperatures can create variable lake ice thickness and unstable road conditions. Here are some tips to help plan a visit:

· Lake ice is thin this time of year and is extremely hazardous – STAY OFF!

· Visit AdventureSmart for information about how to prepare for a wide range of spring activities

· It’s important to check the weather forecast – be prepared for weather changes

· Dress appropriately

· When heading out on trails or into the backcountry, you should bring “The Essentials” with you to help prevent something unforeseen from becoming more serious:

§ Flashlight

§ Fire making kit

§ Signaling device (i.e. whistle)

§ Extra food and water

§ Extra clothing

§ Navigational/communication devices

§ First aid kit

§ Emergency blanket/shelter

§ Pocket knife

§ Sun protection

· Similarly, when heading out on trails or into the backcountry:

§ File a trip plan with a trusted person, or download the AdventureSmart App on your phone

§ Travel and camp in a group

· Do not rely on your cell phone as there are areas in the park that do not have service

· Melting snow can cause icy conditions so walk/drive safely

The park is abundant with wildlife in every season, and overall warming temperatures in spring can increase human-wildlife encounters. When you arrive, remember:

· Don’t feed wildlife

· Keep a safe distance from all wildlife

· Animals including elk and deer are grazing along melting roadsides where grass is exposed – keep a safe distance and stay in your car

· Bears come out of hibernation this time of year and may be present with cubs. Please keep your distance

· Keep pets on leash and under control at all times

Check the Important Bulletins page on the park website before travelling to Prince Albert National Park. There is a page dedicated to construction projects that may affect visitation at different points in the spring. Any critical safety messages such as fire bans are located here.

The Visitor Centre is open daily, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Knowledgeable Parks Canada staff can help plan visits and answer any questions: (306) 663-4522 or pc.princealbertinfo.pc@canada.ca.

The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada. Outdoor recreational activities are family-friendly and can be enjoyed by household groups while respecting public health measures. To help limit the spread of COVID-19 please follow the advice of public health experts and guidelines outlined by the Government of Saskatchewan at www.saskatchewan.ca.

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