Denver, CO – Colorado is facing a critical wave of water-related fatalities this year, with Colorado Parks andampaign Wildlife reporting a significant surge in deaths and rescues compared to previous years. With the summer recreation season now in full swing, officials are urging the public to take necessary precautions to avoid further tragedies.
This year alone, the state has seen nearly 20 fatalities on its waters ranging from rivers and lakes to reservoirs, stated Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesperson, Kara Van Hoose. The count marks a concerning rise, drawing comparisons to the record 42 deaths in 2022 and a stark increase from the 22 in 2021.
The latest incident involved a 24-year-old man from Fort Collins whose body was discovered late June at Lon Hagler Reservoir in Larimer County. He was last known to be kayaking on the reservoir and had been in contact with a family member the same day. His disappearance led to a night-long search, eventually concluding when his body was found near his last reported location. Investigators noted that no life vest was found with the man, and foul outplay is not suspected in his death.
In a separate but equally harrowing incident at Chatfield Reservoir, a sudden thunderstorm with strong winds resulted in multiple watercraft capsizing. South Metro Fire Rescue in Denver reported that their team conducted a complex rescue operation saving eight individuals. This incident underscored the unpredictable and often dangerous shift in weather conditions that can rapidly escalate risk for water recreationists.
The increasing incidents have prompted authorities to emphasize safety measures, especially the use of life vests, which Colorado Parks and Wildlife estimates could prevent about 90% of water-related deaths. Van Hoose also noted the critical role of weather awareness, citing that many accidents occur when individuals are caught off-guard by sudden thunderstorms that are common during Colorado summers.
Understanding and respecting weather patterns is only part of the safety equation. State law requires children age 12 and younger to wear personal flotation devices at all times on the water, and these are also mandated on paddle boards and kayaks regardless of age. Additionally, avoiding alcohol and drugs, wearing appropriate clothing, and keeping communication devices secure and accessible are crucial steps to ensure a safe outing.
For those venturing onto Colorado’s waters, especially during this busy vacation period, local authorities suggest thorough planning that includes informing someone of your travel plans and expected return. They also advocate for enrolling in boating safety classes offered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which provide valuable knowledge on navigating the state’s waterways safely.
As Independence Day celebrations approach, bringing even more enthusiasts to water bodies, the stakes for water safety are particularly high. The community and law enforcement are calling for heightened awareness and precaution to prevent turning a leisure activity into a life-threatening situation.
Authorities assure the public that they are stepping up patrols and surveillance to oversee these popular spots but underscore that safety begins with personal responsibility. As temperatures rise and Colorado’s scenic waters attract more visitors, both residents and tourists are urged to prioritize safety and prepare adequately to ensure enjoyable and incident-free water activities.