The King County Sheriff’s Office issued a media release May 14 to remind everyone that water safety at area rivers and lakes should be of paramount importance this weekend.
Most drowning deaths in King County occur in April, May, and July, including 56 percent (9 out of 16 deaths) in 2009.
With the first really good weather forecast of the season this weekend, people are expected to take to the area’s lakes and rivers.
“While the weather will be great, the rivers and lakes of King County are still very cold and the rivers are fast moving, and extremely dangerous,” said Sheriff Sue Rahr.
Furthermore, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began releasing water from the Howard Hanson Dam on May 12. Flows on the Green River will be high through at least May 15.
That means the Green River will be even more dangerous than usual, especially for unprepared or inexperienced users.
Fast-moving river waters can pull unsuspecting users under logjams left over from the winter, and drowning results.
The rivers and lakes are still very cold from snow melt-off, so hypothermia is a problem. Hypothermia affects everyone, no matter their age, size or experience and takes away a person’s ability to swim or tread water.
Lifeguards have not been assigned to designated swimming areas yet.
Officials recommend to wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket while boating, or even if floating on an inner tube. All children younger than 12 must wear a life jacket while on any boat shorter than 19 feet. All boats must have a life jacket for everyone on board.
“We want King County residents to have a great time outdoors this summer,” said Sheriff Rahr. “But use common sense and stay safe.”
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