Here in Southern Utah we have some great water play grounds, Lake Powell, Quail Creek and Sand Hollow are just 3 off the top of my head. The reason I bring this up is that this weekend thousands of people will go to the water to play. I have been hesitant to write this blog, because I am in no way an expert on water safety, but here in Utah we have had so many people drown this Spring that I really feel like I should write something.
I know that part of the reason that we have had so many drownings is the high runoff levels in our creeks and rivers. Another factor is that the runoff started late, meaning that school was out before it really got going in some areas, so young people had more time to get themselves into trouble. The thing with high, fast moving water is that it takes no time at all to really get a person into a bad situation.
More than just the issues with flooding conditions, with as many people as there are going to be on the water this weekend make sure that you're safe. Don't swim in boating areas, by that I mean don't swim where a lot of boats are going through the area. Make sure that you pay attention to other boats and boaters. This goes with water skiers as well. If you're driving a boat, do it soberly! Don't drink and drive in a boat any more than you would in a car!
Another big thing is don't let small children be unattended near the water. Water is such an attraction to children! Make sure that everyone on the boat has a proper fitting life vests! One other thing to remember is that many areas of Utah had high Spring runoffs, so there could be anything under the water from rocks to uprooted trees, so be careful before you jump in!
There are so many things that you can do to have fun and be safe on the water, I believe what it really comes down to is paying attention to what is going on around you, and the people that you're with!
Fourth of July Fireworks
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