SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer and for some, it's spent cooling off near a waterway. Officials hope everyone is careful to keep the holiday weekend safe.
Saturday was cooler in temperature, seeing more people on the beach than in the water near Discovery Park.
“Usually this river is pretty packed, but today, not too many (people),” said Gina Miranda, who was walking along Tiscornia Park.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is urging people to be safe in and around the water and boats, providing these tips:
- Conduct a Vessel Check: You have the correct safety equipment on board such as life jackets, flares, navigation lights, a horn or whistle, and a first aid kit.
- File a Float Plan: Email/text a float plan to a loved one or friend with details of your trip in case of an emergency.
- Wear a Life Jacket: Everyone should wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when in or near the water.
- Avoid Alcohol: Do not drink and boat.
- Supervise Children: Actively supervise children in and around open bodies of water. Appoint a designated “water watcher,” taking turns with other adults.
- Be Cautious in Rivers: Rivers will rise as snow melts and will be dangerously cold.
Safety officials warn people about the snow runoff which is keeping the rivers especially cold this time of year.
Cal OES says if you are going to visit rivers or lakes, never swim alone. If caught in a current, stay calm and don’t fight it and if you're unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself.
If you do not have a life jacket, there are kiosks along the river where life jackets are free.
Fire districts like Sacramento and other agencies have a life jacket loaner program, click HERE for more information.
