Be A Safe River User
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The Colorado River, which flows by Gateway Park, has been a hot spot to enjoy all that Yuma’s warm days have to offer.
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The Colorado River flows by Gateway Park and has been a hot spot to enjoy all that Yuma’s warm days have to offer. Unfortunately, the river poses an extreme danger for those who choose not to take the necessary precautions for their safety. We hear “Things have sure changed since I used to come here” with the consensus that it is now a safer, more family-oriented park. In the past, prior to development or structured improvements to the park, there had been transient problems, alcohol related fights, overgrowth, trash, and many other problems which detracted from the natural ease of enjoying a day at the river.
Be A Safe River User
Rivers present a completely different range of potential dangers than swimming pools. You can easily understand why the need for river safety education is vital. Rivers are a living feature of this land we live on and having a healthy respect for them provides a broader understanding of the environment and perhaps gives one pause to stop and think before taking risks.
- Always be courteous and respectful of other river users.
- Always swim with a buddy.
- Glass bottles and containers are prohibited in all City of Yuma parks, including river areas.
- Be mindful of undertows and dangerous currents. The Colorado River has deceptively swift currents with hidden rocks, deep holes, and snags below the surface.
- Obey all fire restrictions. Make fires in provided BBQ grills only. No open fires are allowed in the parks or on the beaches.
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages is illegal without a valid permit.
- Dispose of trash properly. If trash cans are full, pack out what you bring in. There is no excuse for littering. It is completely unacceptable under any circumstance.
- Wear thick-soled shoes or sandals when wading in the river. You may not see broken glass or debris on a sandy river bottom.
- Never dive from bridges, rocks, or outcroppings.
- Wear sunscreen.
- Exposure to heat can cause heat exhaustion. Drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks out of the sun.
- Know and practice self-rescue procedures.
- Fast currents, high winds, large or heavy amounts of debris, extreme temperatures, and lightning storms are all good reasons to get out of the river.
- Don’t hesitate in any type of an emergency. If you or a family member has any type of a medical emergency, even if the symptoms are not well defined or seem slight, call 9-1-1; for non-emergency situations please call the Yuma Police Department at 928-783-4421.
- Supervise all young children while they are in, on, or near the water. Drowning and near-drowning can occur in familiar surroundings during very short lapses in supervision. Use life jackets for small children.
Yes, this looks like a lot of rules for a day at the river, but as with all rules, they are in the best interest of the public’s safety. The Yuma Parks and Recreation Department wants you to enjoy the beautiful Colorado River and Gateway Park.
