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Summer holidays are always busy for the Sacramento County Regional Parks Rangers, and this 4th of July holiday weekend was no different!
Over the three-day holiday weekend, the Ranger Marine Unit performed 24 rescues along the American River Parkway. Several rescues were made in the El Manto area, but most of the rescues occurred just down river from River Bend Park.
“Most of the rescues we made involved people using pool toys—things like inflatable loungers or inner tubes meant for calm water, not for rivers with strong currents,” said Leonard Orman, Chief Ranger. “These devices give a false sense of security and can be easily popped by branches and other naturally occurring debris in the American River. If you're going to be on the water, it's critical to use raft or other floatation device appropriate for rivers, and always wear a life jacket—it can save your life.”
As we head into triple digit temperatures, Regional Parks would like to remind those who plan on getting in the American River to take steps to stay safe!
- Always wear a life jacket while in the water
- It is the law that children under 13 must wear a life preserver at all times in public waterways in the County.
- Life jacket borrowing stations are available at popular access points along the American River.
- Always use a floatation device appropriate for flowing rivers. Pool floaties are easily punctured and are far more likely to fail on you during your float.
- Alcohol, drugs and water sports don't mix.
- Keep an eye on children. Never leave children unattended near water.
For more water safety tips, visit the Regional Parks website.