With daytime temperatures in Penticton expected to stay well above 30 C for the next few days, city officials are reminding the public to stay safe when floating down the river channel.

As large crowds gear up to beat the heat this weekend, the city on Friday issued several safety warnings for those who plan to spend time at the Penticton Channel:

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Do not tie your float together, as "this is what causes 90 per cent of our rescue incidents," the city said.

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Wear a life jacket.

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Avoid alcohol and apply sunscreen.

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Keep an eye out for hazards, such as bridge abutments and other floaters.

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Pay attention to the exit and stay right 3/4 of the way down, as "there are signs guiding you if you cannot exit, don't panic, stay on your flotation then paddle right to the beach on Skaha Lake," the city added.

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ When exiting the river channel, make room for others accessing the stairs.

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ¢ Call 911 if you are experiencing or witness a water emergency.

The Penticton River Channel is a 7 km lake-to-lake float and serves as one of the community's most popular summertime activities.