Summer has officially arrived in Green River and one of the greatest pleasures of the season is swimming. We in this community are fortunate to have a robust river flowing through town and a lovely Green Belt which makes summertime recreation more enjoyable. Water recreation offers fun for the whole family and swimming is excellent exercise, but we must never forget that water recreation has risks, and that is true whether you are boating at Flaming Gorge, tubing by the island or swimming in a pool.
Water levels on the Green River are particularly high this year and extra caution is required. Did you know that most drowning deaths occur in natural water environments - rivers, lakes, and dams? Do not be fooled by calm water on a clear day, many seemingly tranquil waterways can present dangerous hazards and water conditions which were perfect one day can alter instantly with a change in the current.
The flat, still surface of a lake can give a false sense of security but currents, undertows or submerged objects can prove to be very dangerous. When swimming in the river, submerged objects, like branches or rocks, are not visible from the surface but swimmers can easily get caught in underwater obstacles. Diving in lakes and rivers is especially dangerous because it is difficult to judge the depth of the water from the surface and there may be rocks and branches that can cause injuries. The best way to enter the water is feet first so if you are determined to be a daredevil then we recommend that you jump not dive.
Always hold your nose when jumping into freshwater; untreated freshwater can contain some particularly nasty microbes, including the deadly “brain-eating” amoeba Naegleria fowleri. Every year, a few Americans get one of these killers lodged deep in their sinuses by plunging into a water hole without plugging their noses first. These nasty amoebas are more abundant in hot climates where warm freshwater is common, so we might not have them in Wyoming, but plug your nose just in case!
Have fun this summer but keep in mind that water recreation has specific dangers. Always wear your life jacket when boating, keep a close eye on children and be sure they are wearing a floating device or a life jacket at all times.
The very best way to keep your children safe around water is to make sure that they are strong swimmers. Look into swimming lessons offered by the Recreation Center or Red Cross Water Safety courses. Another great way to stay fit and improve your skills is by joining a club team such as the Green River USA swim team. its open to all ages and abilities.
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