Truckee Meadows Fire Crews Participate in Water Rescue Training

Media Availability scheduled for Friday, April 26

Reno, Nev. April 23, 2019.  As the snow melts throughout the Truckee Meadows region, the Truckee River flow is high, fast, and cold.   Just this week, our region suffered two river related deaths, including an experienced whitewater kayaker. 

Aside from the swift water, the other threat is the extreme water temperature.  Water from snow melt creates frigid water (about 40 degrees), and a threat of hypothermia.  Even the most experience kayakers and swimmers can drown from rapids, rocks and water exposure.  It is strongly encouraged to wear personal flotation devices (life jackets).

Truckee Meadows Fire Water Entry Team (WET) will be training in the Truckee River, and will have personnel on site to talk with the media on how we train for water rescue and offer safety guidance and information.

WHEN: Friday, April 26, 2019, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

WHERE: From Interstate-80 west, Exit HWY 89, travel south to Glenshire Drive; Turn left to Glenshire Bridge Gravel Parking area.  Detailed Map Here

River Safety Tips

• Strongly discourage anyone from entering the river unless they are a highly experienced swimmer, or are accompanied with a commercial river or rafting company.
• Use the buddy system – never boat alone.   
• Always wear a life jacket at all times, when you are in or near the river.
• Never run a rapid unless you can see a clear path through it. Watch out for new snags after winter and spring floods.
• Know your limits as a swimmer, and know when and how to swim for an eddy.
• Be prepared for extremes in weather, especially cold temperatures.
• Reduce threat of injury by wearing protective footwear and proper clothing.
• Be equipped with a first aid kit and know how to use it; learn or review medical aid responsibilities.
• When entering a rapid section, allow the craft ahead of you to pass through before entering. This enables one boater to lookout for the other and will avoid a double disaster if the leading boat blocks a narrow channel.
• Never enter in the river intoxicated or impaired.

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