We prioritize public safety around our dam site by maintaining high standards and conducting regular inspections. Clear signage and barriers are in place to help keep visitors safe.
Awareness and education are key—please follow posted guidelines and stay informed to enjoy the area responsibly and safely.
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Every year, people are seriously injured or killed at dams. Most of these accidents could be avoided by simply staying clear of the restricted zones at dams, by understanding the dangers dams can create, and by obeying all warning devices.
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Dam Site Safety
Always stay a safe distance outside of warning signs, buoys and barriers when fishing, boating or swimming.
Stay away from the edge of waters above and below hydroelectric stations.
Be sure to obey all warning signs and signals.
Stay back from dry riverbeds below dams. They can quickly change into rapidly flowing waterways.
Flashing lights, horns, or sirens.
Increased or changed wildlife activity.
Louder sound of rushing water.
Previously exposed rocks or snags are covered with water.
Clear water quickly becomes cloudy.
Suddenly faster water currents.
Never anchor a boat below a dam. Rapid surges in water levels can pull an anchored boat under water in seconds.
Beware of dangerous and unseen currents. Backrollers, eddys, and whirlpools can pull a boat upstream into a spillway and quickly capsize it.
Boating above or below a dam can be very dangerous. Always maintain a safe distance from the dam. Keep your motor running when near a dam so that you are always ready to maneuver or leave the area quickly.
Stay away from spillways. Changing currents and unpredictable waves make boat control difficult.
Always wear a personal floatation device (PFD).
According to the American Canoe Association, PFDs were not worn in 48% of kayak fatalities.
Experienced paddlers are four times more likely to wear their PFD.
PFDs not only provide additional flotation in case of capsize or unexpected swim, they also provide an essential layer of warmth in cold water.
It’s the law. Federal and state laws dictate when PFD use is necessary.
Know the hazards.
Paddling hazards can include rocks, strainers, heavy current, lightning and other bad weather. Always scout ahead to identify potential hazards and portage around them if necessary.
Never paddle alone.
Be in command.
Know how to stop your craft and move forward, back and sideways using paddle strokes.
Make sure you know how to right and reenter your craft in the event of capsize.