Drink water if you’re on the water
By Terry Murry on Friday, June 25th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – With a heat advisory now in effect, the Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office is urging boaters to be aware of heat exhaustion/stroke while on the water.
Deputies with the WWCSO Marine Patrol Unit urges people to stay hydrated and remember to eat to replace both electrolytes and lost calories. Those on the water should also apply and frequently reapply water-resistant sunscreen. Taking a break in the shade is also important.
Boaters are reminded that even though the air is warm, water in rivers and lakes remain cold due to the snowmelt runoff. Most river and creek water temperatures range in the upper 40s to the mid-50s. These temperatures can easily cause cold water shock.
In 2020, Washington state ranked in the top five out of all 50 states in boating fatalities.
The public is reminded that boating fatality statistics show that wearing a life jacket gives boaters and paddlers the best chance of survival in the event of an accident, especially in cold water.
