Regardless of what season it is there are tons of activities that Ohioans enjoy doing which involve rivers and streams. People of all ages and backgrounds find great stress relief fishing, tubing, canoeing and playing in rivers. Safety is a major issue, however, when it comes to being on a river or any body of water.

Chris Bass, of Harsha Lake and the area Army Corps of Engineers, shared some basic river safety that everyone needs to be aware. According to Bass, one of the biggest mistakes people make in regard to rivers is underestimating the flow and power of the rushing water.

“People often underestimate the flow of the river or currents and the effects they have on safety,” Bass explained. “River flow can change and what was safe in the morning can become dangerous by the afternoon. It is important to take into account the weather predictions and check the river out before spending the day there or making plans.”

Bass also reminds individuals to never allow children to be on or near a river alone. Having someone with you is actually recommended regardless of your age or experience.

“We remind kids, especially, to always fish and swim with a buddy or parent,” Bass said. “Remember to always tell a responsible adult where you are going, what you will be doing and what time to expect you back...then make sure you stick to the plan.”

Bass said that wearing a life jacket is the best way to be safe in or around water. Also, never dive into a river because there could be hidden limbs, rocks and the depth is uncertain.

There are certain times when rivers are more dangerous than others. For example, if the water is high or rising, or if there has been a recent time of flooding, rivers are more volatile and dangerous.

“This most commonly occurs in the springtime as snowmelt causes runoff and spring storms bring rain,” Bass said. “More water in the river means stronger currents and unpredictable conditions. After flooding subsides there is also more debris in the river to watch out for as well. It is important to consider that even if it is not raining near your spot on the river, precipitation upriver can cause water levels to rise. Being cautious is always necessary on rivers.”

If you or your teenager or younger children are going to be spending time camping or doing activities close to or on a river, there are several safety measures to take into consideration. The number one rule, of course, is never go alone, but Bass said there are other good rules to follow.

“First of all, never go alone and remember life jackets save lives,” Bass said. “Swimming lessons are also a good idea because you will be more comfortable and more likely to know how to cope if trouble occurs, but you should never forgo wearing a life jacket just because you can swim. Also, wearing old shoes is a good idea to protect your feet, telling someone your plan for the day, and having a map in case you get lost are smart ideas too.”

If you do find yourself in trouble on a river, Bass said to remain calm and do not panic. Panicking can make a dangerous situation even worse.

“If you get into trouble and are having trouble getting back to the shore, don’t panic,” he said. “If you are in the water with your life vest, turn so your feet are pointed downstream and allow the current to help you through rough water. Try to swim steadily across current and downstream at the same time making about a 30 degree angle. If you feel tired or do not have a life vest on, find something to help you float (a piece of wood, your cooler, etc.) and again use the same technique to swim to the shore. If you experience a motor breakdown, make sure to put on your life vest. Then try to use the prop as a steering device to help navigate the current and reach the bank.”

Residents of Holmes County and the surrounding area are fortunate to live in such a nature-filled environment. We have rivers, streams, lakes and wooded areas in abundance. Enjoy all the nature and beauty that surrounds us, but do it safely and avoid a senseless tragedy.