Beat the Heat, But Don’t Forget Water Safety
- Portland Observer
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Metro offers tips for safer summer fun
With temperatures rising across the region, many people are heading to lakes and rivers to cool off. Metro is issuing a reminder to practice water safety when they do so.
“We want people to have fun and to enjoy this region’s natural beauty, and we also want them to stay safe,” said Metro Parks and Nature director Jon Blasher. “Even good swimmers can get into trouble in open water.”
During the summer, Metro Parks and Nature stocks life jackets that visitors can borrow for free on a first-come, first-served basis at all of its boat ramps and parks with water access.
Metro is also holding free water safety days at some of its parks over the summer, where visitors can learn about water safety and receive a free life jacket while supplies last. The next one is scheduled for August 6 at Oxbow Regional Park.Visit oregonmetro.gov/events to find other upcoming water safety days. Metro also is distributing approximately 5,000 life jackets at community events and through community-based organizations over the course of this summer.
Two tragic incidents this week show how dangerous the water can be. A man drowned in the Columbia River at the Chinook Landing Marine Park on Monday while reportedly trying to rescue his nephew, who was struggling to swim in the river. The next day, a teenage boy drowned at nearby Blue Lake Regional Park.
Additionally, a 26-year-old drowned last month while swimming in the Columbia River near Rooster Rock State Park (not a Metro property). The Oregon Health Authority reports that in 2024, the most recent year of available data, 34 people drowned in natural water in the state.
Lakes and rivers have hazards like hidden snags, strong currents, and sudden drop-offs. Additionally, many rivers in the region are glacier-fed and stay surprisingly cold year-round. When air temperatures are significantly higher than water temperatures, going from one to the other can send bodies into shock.
Whether you’re boating, floating or simply splashing around, safety should always come first. Wear a life jacket when appropriate, enter natural water cautiously and feet-first, and keep a close eye on children in or around the water. Always swim with a buddy, and never boat or swim under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
Additionally, hot summer weather can promote the rapid growth of harmful bacteria and algae in natural water. It’s a good idea to check the website of any park before you visit to find out about health advisories.