Incline Village, NV – As Labor Day weekend approaches, marking the end of summer and changing of seasons, we encourage our visitors and locals to plan ahead and recreate responsibly, keeping safety first.
Summer fire restrictions are still in place around the Lake Tahoe Basin, and they differ depending on Fire District as well as state and federal lands. Find your fire district and educate yourself on the current fire restrictions in your area.
Check the weather before participating in outdoor activities. The National Weather Service (NWS) Reno issues Red Flag Warnings to alert land management officials and fire agencies when the potential of critical weather that could lead to wildfire activity.
Check out these safety tips for boaters, swimmers, hikers, and bikers to keep you safe while you recreate!
Boaters:
- Wear a life jacket – U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three out of every four recreational boating fatalities and that 85% of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.
- Never go boating under the influence – it is the leading contributing factor in recreational boater deaths.
- Use an engine cut-off switch (a safety device that stops a powerboat engine should the operator, or even passenger, unexpectedly fall overboard. Using the engine cut-off switch can prevent propeller injuries and deaths).
- Make a float plan - let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
- Watch the weather – the weather can change quickly at Lake Tahoe, look at the forecast beforehand.
- Know what is always going on around you.
- Know where you are going and travel at safe speeds – observe local boating speed zones.
- Stay connected – have more than one communication device that works when wet.
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Swimmers:
- Wear a life jacket
- Enter the water slowly and feet first. Cold water shock can cause a powerful gasp reflex, which can make it difficult to breathe.
- Never swim alone. Have a friend or family member with you in case you need help.
- Check the weather for strong wind conditions.
Here are some additional tips for staying safe in cold water:
- Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Wear a wetsuit or other appropriate clothing to stay warm.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs. Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and coordination, making it more difficult to stay safe in cold water.
- Know your limits. If you are not a strong swimmer, do not go into the water alone.
- Be prepared for anything. The weather can change quickly at Lake Tahoe, so be prepared for anything.
Hikers and bikers:
- Know before you go – whether hiking or biking, have a good understanding of the level of difficulty of the trail you are taking and a realistic understanding of your abilities. How far is it? What is the elevation gain?
- First Aid – Take a basic first-aid class.
- Bring food and water.
- Plan what you want to bring based on the weather forecast and how far you are going and what your needs are.
- Pack it in, pack it out – Lake Tahoe is a national treasure. Do your part to help keep it that way.
- Know the rules of the trail. Learn more at http://mountainbiketahoe.org/.
The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District is committed to keeping our community safe. If you see something, say something, and call 911 immediately.
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