Practicing water safety precautions save lives
MONTPELIER - As warmer weather returns to Vermont, state officials and partners are reminding residents and visitors to take extra precautions when swimming and paddling this spring. Despite sometimes mild air temperatures, waters remain dangerously cold and fast-moving, increasing the risk of injury or drowning.
When visiting one of Vermont’s many rivers, lakes, ponds or swimming holes, on public or private lands, keep in mind the following safety tips.
Plan ahead and stay flexible: Check weather conditions before heading out and be prepared to change plans. Sudden storms, rising water or unsafe conditions are good reasons to choose a different location or come back another day.
Check conditions and hazards: Before entering any natural body of water, take a moment to assess conditions above and below the surface. Check water temperature – if it feels too cold for swimming, it likely is. Observe how fast the water is moving and watch for warning signs like bubbling or churning currents, which can make it difficult to stay afloat. Scan the area for hazards such as rocks, logs, ledges, and sudden drop-offs which may be hidden beneath the surface. Changing water levels and currents can shift these obstacles, making familiar spots unpredictable. Avoid dangerous conditions. Also keep in mind that recent or upstream rain can raise water levels and speed up currents, even on otherwise warm, sunny days. Murky water can further reduce visibility and conceal hazards.
Swim smart: Always swim with a buddy, never alone. Assign a dedicated “water watcher” to actively supervise swimmers, especially children. Drowning is often silent and can happen quickly, without splashing or calls for help. Children should never be left unattended near water, and adults should remain within arm’s reach of young swimmers. Make sure everyone swims in areas appropriate for their ability and avoids alcohol when swimming or supervising others.
Wear the right gear: Life jackets save lives. Everyone should wear a properly fitted life vest when boating and paddling, and children should always have appropriate flotation when in or near the water. When paddling consider using additional safety equipment such as wet or dry suits and helmets. Go to the following websites for additional information:
• For safe places to swim, fish, and paddle on state lands and state parks go to the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources website at https://anr.vermont.gov/activities/summer-activities
• For more information on safe places to swim, fish, and paddle on private land access go to the Vermont River Conservancy website at https://vermontriverconservancy.org/find-your-river
• For more information on general water safety go to the Vermont Department of Health website at https://www.healthvermont.gov/emergency/injury-prevention/water-safety-v...
• For more information about paddling safety see the American Whitewater website at https://www.americanwhitewater.org/explore/safety/.
As always, in any emergency, call 911 immediately.
