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As summer heats up, water safety in the spotlight

Local and state officials urge people to enjoy the water but to know their limitations and to keep safety top of mind.
Jack Carlough

As the dog days of summer trudge on, more and more people are seeking a refreshing summer swim. In Longmont, the Dickens Farm Nature Area and other St. Vrain Creek hotspots are popular destinations for a dip.

Outdoor recreation does come with risks and while Boulder County rivers are monitored for safety, water can be unpredictable. 

“As in all organic bodies of water, Longmont rivers have ever-changing conditions and water levels,” said Steve Ransweiler, senior project manager with Longmont  Parks, Open Space and Trails. “Users should be prepared and expect hazards. The Boulder County Sheriff's Office is in charge of closing rivers if the water gets too high or they deem the area too dangerous. However, non-closure of an area is not a guarantee of safety.”

Dickens Farm Nature Area, on Boston Avenue between Main and Martin streets, is home to a float course on the St. Vrain Creek. Ransweiler urges people to enjoy the water but to know their limitations. There is no lifeguard on duty at Dickens Farm and personal flotation devices are recommended for inexperienced swimmers. 

Colorado Parks and Wildlife also urges kayakers and tubers to exercise caution when hitting rivers and streams. Its recommendations include people wearing a lifevest, packing first-aid kits, knowing their limits and carefully studying the water. 

Longmont is not aware of any water-related accidents or casualties in recent years, according to Ransweiler, but the city hopes to keep it that way by preaching safety. 

Boulder County has only two regulated swim beaches — at Union Reservoir in Longmont, which just reopened Monday with a 50-person capacity, and Boulder Reservoir, where swimming, tubing and rafting are not currently allowed in response to the coronavirus pandemic. These also are the only county lakes that are monitored for water quality. 

In a recent news release, Boulder County Public Health recommended people only swim at designated beaches, avoid swallowing water or sand and always shower following contact with the water.