This Memorial Day, going to the lake could help you cool off, but chilly water can rapidly become hazardous.
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office is prepared to handle the influx of people who will be visiting the lakes and rivers this weekend.
“It takes a lot. There is a lot to be prepared for. We have a lot of different waterways in the county. Seven lakes that we cover and two major river systems,” said Fresno County Sheriff’s Deputy Zachary Westbrook.
“An incident can happen at any one of those places.”
The sheriff’s office debuted its boating safety squad on Friday morning and plans to keep it active throughout the summer.
According to Westbrook, they had received numerous trainings in water rescue.
Despite preparedness, he says, it’s crucial that everyone plays a role by wearing a life jacket at all times and staying out of chilly, hazardous waterways.
“Your body becomes tight. You have less motor function, especially in your fingers your hands. You lose those quickly, and eventually you start to lose brain function,” Westbrook explained.
A guy died after falling into the river while kayaking close to the Pine Flat Dam in April.
He is one of two people who have drowned in the Kings River this year.
According to Westbrook, certain areas of the river are prohibited.
“From the bottom of Pine Flat Dam to 300 feet below is closed to all recreation like swimming and boating,” Westbrook stated.
He claims that closures are in place for your personal security.
Additionally, he cautions the public not to be fooled by the water’s movement.
“You slip one time, and it’s over. The current will take you, and it’s too strong. There is no swimmer that I know who can outswim this current.”
Anyone wishing to operate a boat or even a jet ski is required to hold a boating license as of this year. However, if you’re hiring a boat or jet ski from a rental firm, you won’t require a license.
