Although summer may be drawing to a close now that the school year is drawing toward a beginning, many California citizens might try to get one last family trip to the water going. If you plan on heading inland to take advantage of some of the state’s natural sources of water, then consider the tips on hand from officials with the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri.
You’ll want to take precautions when you’re in a river or any other body of water that allows for a current. The water can get churned up near fallen trees or buildups of rocks, and it can be easy to underestimate the power of the water in these situations. Give these environments a wide berth if you can.
Natural bodies of water also don’t have the conformity of something like a swimming pool. The bottom of a lake or river can suddenly drop off without warning, and only strong swimmers should go out very far. By the same token, the ground can jut upward suddenly, and thus caution has to be taken when diving. One should always go feet first in unknown waters so that they don’t strike their head and put themselves at risk for paralysis.
Finally, come prepared with the appropriate equipment. A life jacket is an absolute necessity on a natural body of water, especially if you’re onboard a water craft.