The Municipal Innovation Council has launched a Smart Beach pilot program at Station Beach in Kincardine.
Lead researcher from the University of Windsor, Dr. Chris Houser, says by using a network of sensors, this project will help make the waterfront a safer place for all to enjoy.
“It’s the first of its kind in which we’re bringing new and innovative technology to improve beach safety. Looking at the weather, the waves, the currents, as well as how people are interacting with the beach to create a dynamic warning system to tell people, with confidence, when and where it’s safe to swim.”
He adds the instruments will be monitoring data throughout the summer season.
“We’ll also have people here on the beach that will be doing other measurements in the shallower parts of the water, as well as talking to local beach users about how they’re using the beach, how they would like to be informed about this warning system, and ultimately, how to build that in a way they feel confident in.”
Dr. Houser says this is an innovative new solution that can be adapted to and applied across other municipalities on the Great Lakes and beyond.
MIC Communications specialist, Margaux Bucher, says having these predictive tools will allow Kincardine to provide beach users the knowledge to enjoy a safer experience.
“Those rip currents are hard to detect, and so I think just making that really visible for everyone and providing that knowledge is going to save lives. It’s also a great resource for First Responders as well, when they have to respond to those situations.”
Kincardine Fire Chief, Brad Lemaich, says this information will also help to minimize first responder risk levels if we are called to the scene.
“We’re really excited and hoping that they’ll be able to provide us with some predictive modelling when we are called upon [to a water rescue], and that we can keep our responders safer as well.”
The public can follow the project and its data online.
