HERMISTON, Ore.-Warm weather is finally here, and now that Memorial Day has passed, many people are starting their summer recreation season, including swimming and boating in the river.
A few safety precautions can keep your family and boat safe this summer.
“As we start seeing sunny weather, we forget how cold Pacific Northwest waters are,” said Melissa Rinehart, Natural Resources Management Chief for Portland District, United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). “Your best defense against drowning is to wear that life jacket.”
According to the USACE, 91 percent of drowning victims on USACE managed lands in 2024 were not wearing life jackets.
When a person unexpectedly falls into the water, it can cause gasping, disorientation or injury, that can make rescue or recovery difficult, according to the USACE.
“Many victims never intended to be in the water,” said Rinehart. “These are fathers, sons, brothers and friends who may even be good swimmers.”
The Oregon Health Authority reported 57 accidental drownings across the state in 2023, while the Washington State Department of Health reported 123 drownings between 2020 and 2022, the most recent years for which data is available.
While life jackets may be the most important element of swimming or boating, keeping your boat in safe, working order and making sure to have the proper safety features onboard is also essential.
“Planning ahead and having all the safety gear for the boating activity is critical,” said Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “Boating conditions can change fast in Oregon, when incidents do happen, wearing a life jacket is the most important thing to help save lives.”
Swimming and boating safety tips from the USACE
- Always wear a life jacket: It will help you survive a fall into the water and will save your life if you become exhausted.
- Know your swimming abilities: Swimming in natural waters is different than swimming in a pool.
- Expect the unexpected: Falling or jumping into water less than 70 degrees can cause involuntary gasping.
- Be aware of “Boater’s Hypnosis”: Symptoms include slow reaction times, similar to intoxication.
- Don’t drink when boating or swimming: Alcohol consumption can create an inner ear condition that can lead to disorientation underwater.
Looking to play it safe but still stay cool in the water this summer? Opening day at the Hermiston Family Aquatic Center is June 14.
Family, individual and aqua fit splash passes for the Aquatic Center go on sale June 1 and can be purchased online.
The Aquatic Center at 879 W. Elm Street is open June through August and features a 50-meter lap pool, a zero-depth wade pool, a lazy river, three slides and a diving board.
Swim lessons for levels 1-6 and parent/tot will also be available at the Aquatic Center this summer, with online registration opening June 1.
