Recently, we’ve been seeing an uptick in drowning over the last few weeks, and we wanted to take the opportunity to reshare some resources with you for your readers. As temperatures heat up, many visitors to national parks might want to cool down by going for a swim in a park.

A kayaker looks off to the side while paddling on the Delaware River.
Credit: NPS Photo/Jamie Ratchford

Within national parks, there are many bodies of natural water (streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans) which are very different from a swimming pool, and require visitors to be prepared, vigilant and make good decisions.

Here are 5 common hazards in natural waters and how to reduce the risk of downing when recreating in, on, or around water:
  1. Water Currents: Some currents are very easy to see, and others are more difficult or not visible at all. If you get caught in a current, remember not to fight the current. Swim parallel to shore in a rip current, and swim across a strong river current to reach the shore.
  2. Distance Across Water: Distance across water can be very deceptive. It’s important to stay close to shore, don’t swim to rocks or other formations in the middle of the water, and ALWAYS wear a life jacket.
  3. Cold Water: Many of the natural bodies of water can be colder than 80 °F, even in summertime. If you decide to recreate in cold water, check the water temperatures before entering, wear a wet suit or a dry suit, and limit your time in the water.
  4. Water Depth: Natural bodies of water often don’t have a gradual change in water depth like a swimming pool. Uneven bottoms, low tide shelves, ledges, or holes can suddenly increase water depth and leave you unable to touch the bottom. Find out where its safest to swim on nps.gov or ask a ranger at the park. It essential to wear a life jacket and designate a “water watcher” to supervise children or inexperienced swimmers.
  5. Underwater Hazards: Avoid swimming in areas where you can’t see below the surface of the water in natural bodies of water. Fallen trees, plants, or rocks can be found at the bottom. You can become entangled and trapped in these underwater hazards and face dangerous situations where you cannot get out. Be extra vigilant of your surroundings when swimming in murky water.
Here are some of the additional resources: