Each year as the weather starts to warm up, the Orting Police Department likes to remind folks about some of the dangers relating to swimming in the surrounding rivers.   The Carbon and Puyallup rivers frame the City of Orting and are responsible for making it a beautiful and unique place to live and work. 

We feel safe near our rivers and for many of us, they are part of our daily routine; we see them  while driving to and from work, enjoy them while walking the trails, and fish from them in the fall.  Yet each spring and summer, Orting Police and Fire Department staff are dispatched to emergencies involving citizens who underestimate  some of the dangers our rivers can pose.  As we look at the potential for record breaking heat this weekend,  many will turn to the Carbon and Puyallup rivers for an opportunity to cool off.  For those that do, please consider some of the following information to ensure you remain safe while near the water:

• Orting rivers are directly fed by glacier melt water located on Mount Rainer.  Even on the hottest days, this water is bitterly cold and dangerous for swimmers.  Hypothermia can occur quickly and overtake even the best of swimmers.

   

• Rivers are unpredictable and always changing.  There may be hidden dangers such as submerged objects, changing currents and varying depths. The fact that you may have recently visited the river does not mean the river will be the same as it was the last time you were there.

   

• Children, pets, and even adults are easily caught in rapid currents that may not be visible from the surface.   Currents can quickly sweep  people and pets downstream or cause them to become stranded on secluded islands that are difficult for help to reach. 

• If you find yourself stranded on a secluded or hard to reach portion of land, do not attempt to swim back. Call for help immediately and stay dry.

• Stay sober when on or in the water.  Alcohol and other drugs increase the effects of weather, temperature, and overall judgement.

•  Never swim alone, and do not allow children to play unattended near the water.

• If you choose to go in or near the water, consider wearing a life jacket as a precaution.

•  Consider alternatives to river swimming such as an air-conditioned movie theater, or visiting a local cooling center.

We hope you enjoy the warm weekend.   Stay cool and be safe!