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To report a safety issue or notify a ranger, call the Ranger Dispatch office at 916 - 875-PARK (7275).
Tips for Staying Safe Around Public Waterways
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Wear a life jacket - Whether you are fishing, boating, swimming, or just floating, wear a properly fitting jacket. Read about the mandatory life preserver ordinance for children 13 and under in public waterways.
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The "Kids Don't Float" life preserver loaner program provides jackets for temporary use at the following points: Ancil Hoffman Park, Discover Park (two locations), Folsom Point, Howe Avenue, Negro Bar, Nimbus, Sunrise and Watt Avenue Park. They are also available at several Sacramento Metro Fire Stations.
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Learn how to swim - Even with life jackets, it is important to know how to swim
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Stay out of deep water - Riverbeds can drop off sharply. Stay close to shore to avoid drop-offs and currents
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Watch out for hazards - Murky river water can hide logs, sharp rocks or trash that can cut your feet. It is recommended that you wear shoes
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Don't follow your equipment downstream - Never risk your life to save equipment or belongings
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Stay with your boat - Stay with your capsized boat unless it is unsafe to do so and/or it becomes safe to swim
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Obey the signs - Read any signs you may see in the area before you enjoy any type of recreation
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Alcohol, drugs and water sports don't mix -
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Wear sunscreen - Spending all day at the river can give you a painful sunburn. Be sure to wear SPF 15 or better and reapply frequently
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Don't get too tired! - People, especially children, can make unsafe choices when they are too tired
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Never use rope swings or jump of bridges - No matter how deep the water is, these activities can result in serious injury or death
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Watch out for hypothermia - If you experience excessive shivering or fatigue, get out of the water at once
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Keep an eye on children - Never leave children unattended near water
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Respect the plant and animal inhabitants - Do not bother animals, and watch out for stinging insects and poison oak
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How to help someone in trouble - Yell "Help" to draw attention. Reach towards the person with a pole, branch or paddle, or throw out a life jacket or ice chest to help them stay afloat until they are able to get to shore or help arrives |
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