SPOKANE — Despite warm weather tempting residents toward summer activities, Spokane Fire Department officials warn it’s still too dangerous to enter the Spokane River.
This time of year, the river flows at 8,400 cubic feet per second with water temperatures in the upper 50 degrees — conditions that remain hazardous even in seemingly calm areas.
“Every year we call this our busy season on the river,” said Lt. Connor Reding of the Spokane Fire Department.
Water rescue calls have already increased this week, including a false alarm at Riverfront Park that drew crowds of onlookers. The swiftwater rescue team responded to multiple incidents, highlighting the ongoing risks as warmer weather draws people to the water.
Emergency responders take these calls seriously because water emergencies can turn deadly within seconds. People can quickly find themselves in dangerous situations on the river.
“They might be stuck on a rock. They might be in a bad place where they don’t feel confident they can walk or swim away from,” Reding explained.
To prepare for these emergencies, the swiftwater rescue team maintains a rigorous training schedule throughout the year.
“We train on the upper part of the river all the way to Post Falls at the State Line,” Reding said.
The team trains every Friday, year-round, because river dangers don’t disappear as the season progresses. While current flows have decreased from last month’s peak levels, hazards remain present.
“The river is dangerous from the highest flows in the spring all the way towards the lowest flows in say August. As the water level changes, the hazards just change as well,” Reding noted.
When conditions eventually improve later in the season, officials stress that proper preparation becomes essential for anyone considering river activities. The most critical piece of equipment is a properly fitted life jacket that fits snugly without riding up.
Officials also recommend bringing a companion and developing a plan before entering the water. These precautions become especially important given how quickly situations can change on the river.
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