Rivers remain fast, cold and dangerous — King County officials warn
King County is sending out a mailer to more than 30,000 addresses within a mile of the county’s major river recreation areas, urging residents to exercise caution around open water.
“Warm weather and cold water can be a dangerous combination, and we urge all river users to exercise a high degree of caution,” said Christie True, Director of the King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks.
Last July, 20 people drowned in Washington waters.
The County is also installing new signs at more than a dozen popular riverside recreation areas that read: “Warning, River is Dangerous”.
Before venturing into open water, King County health and safety officials remind river users to:
- Wear a life jacket;
- Do not use alcohol and drugs which can impair your judgment in an emergency;
- Keep children within reach, always watching them closely near and in water;
- Choose safer swimming options with lifeguards present, such as a beach, lake or pool; and
- Know river conditions before getting in the water.
For more information on river safety and drowning prevention, visit the King County river safety web page at www.kingcounty.gov/riversafety.
Category: News, Prevention, Public Health, Safety
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