Recent rescues and fatalities highlight life-or-death importance of preparation, awareness, and life jackets

As Memorial Day weekend ushers in the unofficial start of summer, the region’s lakes and rivers are already seeing a surge of activity. But with rising temperatures and inviting waters comes a serious message from local first responders: play it safe—or risk turning a fun day into tragedy.

In recent weeks, area first responders have been called to several serious water incidents, including multiple fatalities. A kayaker who drowned in the American River near Auburn was only recently recovered near Oregon Bar, and last week, a fisherman was swept away and drowned in the fast-moving waters of the Sacramento River. Earlier this month, El Dorado Hills Fire crews rescued two kayakers who became distressed on Folsom Lake after high winds and rough water created hazardous conditions. These incidents underscore the unpredictable nature of local waterways and serve as sobering reminders of how quickly even experienced swimmers and boaters can find themselves in life-threatening situations.

“As summer approaches and outdoor recreational activities increase, the Folsom Fire Department is emphasizing the critical importance of water safety in Folsom’s lakes and rivers,” Folsom Fire Chief Ken Cusano told Folsom Times. “With Folsom Lake and the American River attracting residents and visitors alike, safety should always come first when enjoying our beautiful waterways.”

In preparation for the season, first responders with the Folsom Fire Department have been busy in recent months training on Lake Natoma and the American River. While most residents were bundled up for winter or spending time indoors, the department’s rescue teams were already out on the water, refining maneuvers aboard their boats in anticipation of emergencies. They weren’t alone—Sacramento Metropolitan Fire, California State Parks, El Dorado Hills Fire, and others have also been conducting joint readiness drills across the region.

Cusano explained that while this year’s runoff and flows aren’t as extreme as in past record-setting winters, the hazards are still present. “While this season is closer to being normal, the dangers are still lurking below the surface out there—literally,” he said. “Precautionary measures and planning can prevent tragedies. Always wear a life jacket, even if you are a good swimmer.”

“Last year alone, Folsom Fire Department responded to 10 water rescue incidents—each one a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong,” Cusano added. “Please wear a life jacket, stay sober around the water, and keep a close eye on children and inexperienced swimmers.”

While the surface of Lake Natoma may appear calm from the shoreline, the water below can be cold and swift, with drop-offs, submerged hazards, and debris. “It’s really important to remember that the water will be cold right now and there’s always the chance of debris this time of year when the levels are higher,” said Cusano. “Colder temperatures can quickly incapacitate even the strongest of swimmers.” He also noted that Folsom Lake is already nearly full, meaning vegetation and trees that are usually visible along the shoreline are now submerged, creating entanglement hazards.

Every year, first responders are called to recover drowning victims—many of whom were not wearing life jackets. “Even strong swimmers can get into trouble in cold or fast-moving water,” Cusano said. “Preparation and awareness are key. It’s about protecting yourself and the people you care about.”

To help prevent water-related tragedies, the Folsom Fire Department encourages everyone to take several safety precautions seriously. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket, no matter how strong of a swimmer you are. Stay informed about weather and water conditions before heading out, as these can change quickly and without warning. Never swim alone—always go with a buddy and keep an eye out for one another. Avoid diving into unfamiliar waters, and steer clear of rope swings, which are not only extremely dangerous but illegal within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Alcohol should never be mixed with swimming or boating, as it impairs judgment and coordination. Lastly, consider learning CPR, a skill that could be the difference between life and death in an emergency.

One particularly hazardous issue at Folsom Lake is the use of unauthorized tree rope swings. These have been the cause of numerous injuries over the years, and in 2023, tragically contributed to the death of a young woman. Rope swings may look like harmless fun, but they are illegal within the park boundaries and pose major risks due to fluctuating water levels, submerged rocks, and shifting debris fields.

“We strongly discourage people to jump in the water, diving, plunging off rocks, rope swings. Those are dangerous activities,” explained Folsom Lake State Recreation Area Superintendent Mike Howard in an earlier Folsom Times article. “When the lake is high, there’s a lot of rocks and trees adjacent to the water and people tend to want to put rope swings on those.”

Officials urge anyone who encounters a rope swing not only to avoid using it but to report it immediately so rangers can remove it before someone gets hurt. Early action can prevent the next injury—or save a life.

Another major factor in water incidents is impairment—not only for those swimming, but for those operating boats or supervising children. Drugs and alcohol can easily turn a safe outing into a dangerous one.

To ensure that everyone has access to proper safety equipment, the Folsom Fire Department operates a free life jacket loaner program at Station 35, located at 535 Glenn Drive in Folsom. The program is open to residents and visitors alike, offering life jackets for both adults and children. California State Parks also provides loaner kiosks at several shoreline locations throughout the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.

“It’s a simple way to stay safe and protect your loved ones while enjoying the water,” Cusano said. Making a quick stop by the station before heading out could be a life-saving decision. Residents can learn more about the Life Jacket Loan Program by visiting www.folsom.ca.us.

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