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Water Safety Matters: A Reminder for Our Community

Recent events serve as a heartbreaking reminder that water can be unpredictable and dangerous, even on warm summer days.

Throughout the Snoqualmie Valley and surrounding communities, we are fortunate to have access to beautiful rivers, lakes, and waterways that provide recreation, relaxation, and connection to nature. But every year, preventable accidents occur because the risks associated with water are often underestimated.

Water safety is not just about swimming ability. Strong swimmers can encounter trouble due to cold water, currents, fatigue, hidden hazards, or unexpected conditions.

Cold Water Can Kill

One of the greatest misconceptions is that warm weather means safe water temperatures.

Many of our rivers and lakes are fed by snowmelt and remain dangerously cold throughout much of the year. Sudden immersion in cold water can trigger cold shock, causing an involuntary gasp reflex, rapid breathing, panic, and loss of muscle control within seconds.

Even experienced swimmers can struggle when exposed to cold water unexpectedly.

Water Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

Always Wear a Life Jacket

Life jackets save lives. Whether you are boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or near moving water, wearing a properly fitted life jacket dramatically increases your chances of survival in an emergency.

Never Swim Alone

Always recreate with others and let someone know where you are going. Having another person nearby can make the difference during an 

emergency.

Know Your Swimming Ability

Do not assume calm water is safe water. Lakes can have sudden drop-offs, deep water, underwater hazards, and changing conditions. Stay within your comfort level and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

Be Careful Around Rivers

Rivers are constantly changing. Currents, strainers, submerged logs, rocks, and debris can create hazards that may not be visible from shore. Even shallow water can be dangerous when moving quickly.

Paddleboard and Kayak Safely

In moving rivers, never wear an ankle leash designed for lakes or flatwater paddling. A leash can become snagged on debris and pull a person underwater. If using a leash in moving water, ensure it is a quick-release river leash and know how to use it properly.

Make Sure Your Designated Adult Can Swim

When spending time around water, especially with children or inexperienced swimmers, ensure that the responsible supervising adult knows how to swim and is comfortable in the water.

A responsible adult should:

  • Be actively supervising, not distracted by phones or other activities
  • Know how to swim
  • Know how to call for help in an emergency
  • Understand basic water safety and rescue principles
  • Wear a life jacket when appropriate

Children should never be left under the supervision of another child or a non-swimmer when near water.

Supervise Children Closely

Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. Designate a responsible adult to actively watch children whenever they are near water.

Avoid Alcohol Around Water

Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, reaction time, and swimming ability, increasing the risk of accidents and drowning.

Learn Basic Water Rescue Skills

If someone is in trouble, remember:

Reach. Throw. Row. Go.

• Reach with a pole or branch.
• Throw a flotation device.
• Row if a boat is available.
• Go into the water only if you are trained to perform a rescue.

Water Safety Checklist

✔ Wear a life jacket
✔ Never swim alone
✔ Respect cold water temperatures
✔ Know your limits
✔ Supervise children closely
✔ Make sure the supervising adult can swim
✔ Avoid alcohol around water
✔ Check conditions before entering the water
✔ Recreate with a buddy
✔ Be prepared for emergencies

Enjoy the Water Responsibly

The Snoqualmie Valley’s rivers, lakes, and waterways are some of our region’s greatest treasures. By understanding the risks and taking simple precautions, we can help ensure that everyone returns home safely.

Please take a moment to talk with your family and friends about water safety this summer.A life jacket, a few extra minutes of preparation, and good decision-making can save a life.

Wander Wisely Reminder

  • Wear a life jacket
  • Check conditions before you go
  • Respect cold water
  • Know your limits
  • Recreate with a buddy
  • Leave no trace
  • Be prepared for emergencies

Let’s work together to keep our families, friends, residents, and visitors safe while enjoying the outdoors.

SnoValley Chamber of Commerce

“Strengthening Commerce Through Community”

Kelly Coughlin Games, CEO

PO Box 357

North Bend, WA 98045

425.888.6362

501.259.5652

Website: www.snovalley.org

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