The wait is nearly over for a new real-time beach safety signal at Kincardine's Station Beach.
The municipality will officially activate the Smart Beach Light at 10 a.m. on June 12. The light uses green, yellow, and red signals, similar to a traffic light, to indicate current water conditions to beachgoers before they enter Lake Huron. Which colour light is displayed is based on real-time environmental data including wave conditions, wind, and currents. Red indicates a high hazard requiring extreme caution, yellow is a medium hazard where increased caution is advised, and green is a low hazard.
Since its installation last month at the main beach entrance, the solar-powered light has been undergoing testing and calibration.
“This project reflects a strong commitment to safety and innovation in our community,” Mayor Kenneth Craig said in a statement. “Through collaboration with our partners and the dedication of local volunteers, we’re proud to introduce Canada’s first Smart Beach Light, a tool that helps people better understand changing lake conditions and make safer choices.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held to mark the official launch of the Smart Beach Light. The event will include remarks from local dignitaries, the Kincardine Beach Safety Group, Regional Tourism Organization 7, and SwimSmart Technology LLC. Two memorial benches will also be dedicated at the ceremony in recognition of families affected by drownings and their contributions to advancing beach safety awareness.
