Swift Water Safety

Alberta Falls in summer

NPS

Summer has arrived in the Rocky Mountains and most of the snow has metled in high elevation areas of the park. This also means that all waterfalls, rivers, streams and creeks are running cold, fast, and high. Moving swift water is beautiful and inspiring, but it is also very dangerous.

 

How to Safety Enjoy Moving Water in the Park

Enjoy moving water from a distance. Rocks and vegetation along the banks of waterfalls, rivers and streams can be deceptively slippery. It is best to stay back at least one body length back from the edge of riverbanks and waterfalls. Always provide proper supervision for children, who by nature, tend to be attracted to water. Make sure children stay back from the water’s edge.

Tips for Safely Hiking Along Moving Water:

• Stay at least one body length back from the edge of riverbanks and waterfalls. Vegetation and rocks near moving water can be icy, wet, and slippery.
• Stay on designated trails and enjoy the water from a distance.
• Don't try to wade, swim, or dip your feet into moving water.
• It is especially important to keep an eye on young children, who are naturally drawn to water.

What Should You Do When Hiking and there is Water Flowing Across a Trail?

Know before you go - Pay attention to the weather forecast and do some research on the trails you are planning to hike.

If you are hiking and come upon water flowing across a trail, stop and do not attempt to cross. It is best to turn back and try your hike another day. You do not know how deep or how fast that water is flowing.

 

Swift moving water is flowing over boulders in the Big Thompson River

NPS Photo

If you see someone slip into swift moving water, take the following steps:

• Stay calm and try to keep the person in sight
• Do not enter the water and try to rescue them yourself. This could place you in a life-threatening position as well as the person you are trying to help
• Look around and see if a branch, rope, or throw bag can be used to help the person in the water
• Call 911 and report the location and share that someone has fallen into swift-moving water

 

Timberline Falls in summer

NPS Photo/D.Turk

 

Duration:

29.12 seconds

Water is flowing in a mountain stream during spring run off.