KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - At this point in the summer, King County rivers are running deep and cold, presenting a hazard for people who venture into the swift waters. Today’s closure of a section of the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River to recreation activity by the King County Sheriff only reinforces the gravity of the danger.

"Right now, it’s not a good time to be swimming in local rivers. Even the best swimmers with lifejackets may not be strong enough for the currents, tree and boulder hazards, and cold water temperatures," said Dorothy Teeter, Interim Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County.

In addition, rafters, kayakers, and canoeists are at increased danger because of logjams created by changes in the river flow. The closed area of the Snoqualmie River is in a place where several trees are in the water, creating a danger where people can be pulled in and under the tree by the strong water flow.

Even in areas of rivers that remain open, Public Health recommends that inexperienced rafters, kayakers, and canoeists do not venture out under current conditions.

“It’s important that recreationalists understand that rivers are natural dynamic systems that are constantly changing,” said King County Department Natural Resources and Parks Director Pam Bissonnette. “They are inherently dangerous places that always carry risks, particularly this time of year. People should either not go in cold and swift rivers or be very prepared and willing to accept these risks if they do.”

In 2005 there were four drowning deaths in King County area rivers, and there have been many other near-drownings.

Public Health encourages all residents to follow these boating safety guidelines:

• Scout the condition of the river before putting in and know the level of difficulty before launching your boat.
• Wear a properly fitted, US Coast Guard approved life jacket at all times. The State of Washington requires all children under 12 years of age and younger to wear a personal flotation device when boating.
  
• Be a competent swimmer with the ability to handle yourself underwater.
• Know how to handle your water craft with the proper use of paddles and oars.
• Never boat beyond your skill level.
• Always stay alert for unexpected hazards.
• Never use alcohol or drugs when boating or floating in a river. They dull important survival reflexes and impair decision-making skills.
  
• Children should never boat or float a river without the close supervision of an adult.
• Know and practice river rescue techniques. Be trained in rescue skills, CPR, and first aid with emphasis on recognizing and treating hypothermia.

Signage warning people of the Snoqualmie River section closure is being posted by the King County Sheriff. The portion of the river closed runs from the Blue Hole swimming area to the Mason-Thorson Extension. Blue Hole is at SE 114th, just outside the city of North Bend. The river will remain closed downstream to about SE 108th.

Providing effective and innovative health and disease prevention services for over 1.8 million residents and visitors of King County, Public Health – Seattle & King County works for safer and healthier communities for everyone, every day.

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