Water Recreation Safety Urged Ahead of Holiday Weekend on the Colorado River

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – As Memorial Day weekend approaches, safety officials are urging caution for those planning to head out on the Colorado River. Whether you’re boating, rafting, or paddleboarding, understanding the risks and preparing properly can make all the difference.

Check River Conditions Before Launching

Before getting on the water, it’s essential to know current river conditions. Water levels and flow rates can change quickly and dramatically, especially in the spring.

“The river could look fairly innocuous when there’s actually significant water depth moving very quickly,” said Nicholas Ingalls with the Mesa County Search and Rescue Swift Water Team. “So check the river levels to see what the averages are.”

A recommended resource for checking real-time river flow data is the American Whitewater River Index.

Wear a Life Jacket – It’s the Law

One of the most critical—and legally required—safety precautions is wearing a properly fitting life jacket while on the water.

“Wearing it is the most important thing you can do,” Ingalls emphasized. “If it’s sitting in a locker or on the floor, it’s not very useful. You don’t have time to put it on when you need it.”

Watch for Hazards Like Snags and Debris

Natural and man-made obstacles can create dangerous situations for watercraft.

“Folks that get too close to the pylons risk puncturing their boat, raft, or inflatable and getting swept into one of those,” said Ingalls.

He also warned paddlers to be cautious of hidden snags under the surface that can entrap people or damage equipment.

Know When to Call for Help

If you find yourself in trouble, don’t hesitate to call emergency services.

“Call 9-1-1 and explain your situation. Ask for search and rescue,” said Ingalls. “We’d rather you do that and call early than put yourself in more danger.”