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Jed Boal ReportingAs raging water rises in creeks and rivers across Utah, so do concerns about deadly accidents. Stream flows will intensify in many areas in the weeks ahead. The view from Chopper Five clearly shows the danger.
Swift water crews prepare for rescues, but by the time they arrive, it's can be too late for a rescue. So we all need to stay alert near the banks of our creeks.
Utah Rivers are roaring and rising, picking up power each day. With high mountain snowpacks still to come down and saturated ground, the flood watch continues in Northern Utah.
Beyond potential property damage, even if they present no flood threat, our streams and rivers can be deadly for anyone who slips in.
Cpt. Joseph Treadwell, Murray Fire Department: "We've got a great response time, but when you're dealing with water, all it takes is 45 seconds to be submerged. And that can be too long. As quick as we are, sometimes it's body recovery."
Swift water rescue teams train regularly this time of year. The water may not look that fast, but it's deceptive. The water is frigid too. Kids are especially fascinated.
Steve Foote, South Salt Lake Fire Chief: "Educate your kids. Keep an eye on them and make sure they don't put themselves in harm's way."
To stay safe, don't try to jump into to save another person; you could become a victim. Encourage the person to keep their head above water and move with the current to the edge. Throw them something to hold on to and try to attract attention and call for help. Also, make sure you can provide detailed and accurate information.
Steve Foote, South Salt Lake Fire Chief: "The best thing though is prevention. Don't let your kids get near these streams, they're running quickly. Once we get a warm spell, it's going to be worse."
Many streams won't peak until the end of the month, but a lot of rain in a short period of time could flood any river. The water is cold, the current is strong, and if a person goes in, they can disappear quickly. The best advice is keep your distance.
