SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. – Before you jump in the water, strap on your life jacket.
Warmer weather has many people ready to explore the Spokane River, but water rescue crews are warning that skipping a safety step can quickly turn a fun day into an unpleasant one.
Chief Craig Warzon with the Spokane Valley Fire Department is a part of the district's water rescue team.
In 2017, the crew responded to 39 calls for water rescue. In 2018, they responded to 41. Although the 2019 water season is in its early months, the crew has already responded to eight calls.
"A lot of people who drown in the Spokane River think that they're a better swimmer than they are, or they underestimate that temperature of the water or the power of the river," Warzon said.
He said that, even in June, some spots of the river can be just 50 degrees and that falling or swimming in that water can put a shock on your body.
"It's like turning on a shower, and the cold water comes out instead of hot," he said. "You do a quick gasp. Well, imagine that's your whole body."
He said most people who drown in cold water do so in just one to two minutes. Even the expert swimmer is susceptible.
Warzon said he recommends that people take the necessary safety precautions and learn to recognize the early signs of someone drowning.
"Drowning doesn't look like Hollywood portrays it," he said. "When you see a movie or TV show, the people are waving their arms. They're screaming."
In reality, drownings are much quieter and harder to recognize, he said.
"Most people that are drowning, it's very hard to realize that they're drowning, because all they can do is bring their head up and take a breath and go back down. They don't have the energy or strength to yell," he said.
To help keep yourself and others out of that situation, Warzon says to watch your children closely, never go near water alone and make sure everyone is wearing a well-fitted life jacket.
In Spokane County, wearing a life jacket is mandatory if you're in or on the bank of the river. You can get ticketed if you're caught without one.
If you're new to swimming or kayaking, Warzon recommends talking to an expert to make sure you're well-prepared.