SUMMER WATER SAFETY

Summer is here and as we are all excited to spend more time outdoors enjoying the sunshine and beautiful Lake Tahoe. With that, now is a perfect time to review water safety tips specific to the lake.

We all know the temperature of Lake Tahoe is a bit colder than most since it is an Alpine lake. Currently the lake temperature is 50 degrees. Whether boating, jet skiing, kayaking, rafting, paddle boarding or swimming, it is important to inform yourself about the colder temperatures of Lake Tahoe and how it can affect you. It is also a good idea to check the red flag warning status.

As the winter run off continues to melt and makes its way to the lake, the water temperatures will fluctuate between 50 – 70 degrees June through September. Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the United States, because of this; the temperatures remain lower than most lakes in our region year-round.

North Lake Tahoe Fire personnel respond to numerous water emergencies on the lake not just during the summer months but throughout the year. We encourage everyone to please review the following safety precautions before recreating on Lake Tahoe.

BOAT SAFE: PREPARE FOR COLD WATER AT LAKE TAHOE

Wear a life jacket Carry a whistle or horn Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature Check the weather forecast for wind conditions Never go in the water alone Do not drink alcohol while operating a boat File a float plan – leave it with a friend or family

BOAT SMART: KNOW THE DANGERS OF COLD WATER AT LAKE TAHOE

Cold Water Shock – Can cause a powerful gasp reflex when entering the water. You have approximately 1 minute to get your breathing under control. Swim Failure – You only have about 10 minutes of strength in your arms and legs for self-rescue. Hypothermia – Even in ice water it could take about 1 hour before losing consciousness. You only have this time if you are wearing a life jacket. Cold Water – Defined as water that is 70 degrees and below. Tahoe water temps range from 40 degrees in winter to 70 degrees in summer. Lake Tahoe water is always cold! Survival – Time in cold water is greatly increased when you wear a life jacket.

SWIM SAFE: PREPARE FOR COLD WATER AT LAKE TAHOE

Wear a life jacket and know your swimming limitations Enter the water slowly Feet first, first time Never swim alone Respect the dangers of cold water Check the weather for wind conditions File a ‘float plan’ before boating and leave with a friend or loved ones

SWIM SMART: KNOW THE DANGERS OF COLD WATER AT LAKE TAHOE

Cold Water Shock – Can cause a powerful gasp reflex when entering the water. Swim Failure – You only have a few minutes of strength in your arms and legs for self-rescue. Hypothermia – Cold water accelerates the progression of hypothermia since body heat is lost 25 times faster in cold water than cold air. Drowning – Can happen to anyone, even good swimmers.

Please swim smart and safe, know the dangers of cold water. Educate yourself and wear a life jacket anytime you are in the water, it can save your life.