Emergency Services Urge Safe Water Recreation

 The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Department of Emergency Services (DES) would like to remind all our residents and visitors to use safe water and boating practices during outdoor activities. The ice is gone from most of our waterways, and as warm weather arrives, the public is anxious to get out and enjoy the Great Alaskan Outdoors. Whether it is swimming, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, boating, or other related activities, it is important to be prepared and to recreate safely.

There are steps the public can take to engage in these activities safely and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Your local Mat-Su Borough Fire Departments, EMS, and the Water Rescue Team are ready to aid as necessary, but accident prevention is crucial for a safe and enjoyable outing.

Please incorporate the following guidelines while being active in the outdoor areas of the Mat-Su Borough:

• PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES: Always wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) regardless of your ability to These protect you if you are unexpectedly thrown into the water. Water temperatures are typically below 45°F and are always classified as "cold". These low water temperatures quickly drain even the best swimmer's strength and endurance.
• MOVING WATER: Be extra cautious in moving and turbulent Local silty rivers make it difficult to see obstructions and other hazards in the water. Be particularly cautious near obstructions such as logs and trees that are either just above or just below the water surface. These create a hazard and may flip a canoe, kayak, raft, or damage a larger boat. Avoid tidal flats and muddy areas, as you may become stuck.
• CHILDREN: Always closely supervise and monitor children near the water. Children should wear an appropriately sized PFD and never be left unattended.
• ACCIDENT AVOIDANCE: Recreate sober and maintain situational awareness to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
• EQUIPMENT: Make sure you have all the Coast Guard-required safety equipment on board your boat. Depending on vessel size, here are some items to include: a life jacket for each passenger, a throwable flotation aid, signaling equipment, a first aid kit, and a communications device (cellphone or other satellite-based device), which is strongly encouraged. Never overload your boat! Plan in case you tip over or become stranded.
• TRAVEL: Never go alone; always take someone with you if you are out on the water. Inform a friend or relative of your "float plan" and when you are expected to return.
• WEATHER: Check the weather and expected water/stream conditions in advance. Be familiar with the area that you are in, as water conditions can change day to day.
• SWIMMING: If you choose to swim in our waterways, NEVER swim alone! Stay away from turbulent areas and moving water. Always enter slowly and never dive in. A person can go underwater in a murky lake or be swept away in river currents, making them hard to find. Swimming in natural bodies of water requires more knowledge and skills than swimming in a swimming pool.
• SAFE RESCUES: If someone falls into the water, use something to reach or throw them, do not enter the water yourself. Remember, "Reach and throw-don't go!" There are numerous devices available to carry while on the water to aid in rescue efforts.
• Call 911 in case of an emergency.

Please recreate safely in the Mat-Su Borough! Additional information is available from the Alaska Office of Boating Safety, including the "Alaska Boater's Handbook," which contains valuable information. www.alaskaboatingsafety.org. Thank you.