To help keep you and your family safe, here are some basic water safety tips from the Boise Fire Department.
Basic Water Safety Tips
- NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN UNATTENDED IN OR NEAR WATER. Children are drawn to water.
- DO NOT SWIM IN CANALS.
- Learn to swim. Seek out your local partners in the community that offer swimming lessons.
- Use the buddy system; never swim alone.
- Be aware that lifeguards are not present at City of Boise public swimming ponds.
- Follow all posted rules. If no rules are posted, use common sense.
- Wear a life jacket when swimming in or paddling on the water.
- Practice physical distancing and always stay six feet from anyone outside your immediate household.
- If a park or recreation area is crowded, be flexible and go elsewhere to avoid crowds.
- The official float season for the Boise River typically begins in late June. Local officials, including Ada County Parks & Waterways and Boise Fire, will continue to evaluate options for the float season as summer approaches.
- Swimmers with limited water experience should stay in water less than chest deep.
- Know the water you are in and all possible dangers associated.
- Do not swim if there are indications of bad weather.
- Do not dive head first unless the area is clearly posted for diving.
- Do not swim or boat while under the influence of alcohol.
Public Swimming Ponds
The City of Boise’s Parks and Recreation Department manages several parks with ponds and water features open to the public for swimming, paddling and fishing. Please note: no lifeguards are on duty at public swimming ponds or at the Boise Whitewater Park. More information on amenities and hours of operation at each park location is available here:
Life Jackets
If you plan to cool off at Quinn's Pond or Esther Simplot Park, please wear a life jacket! They are required for anyone age 14 and under and should be on board any vessel (including paddle boards) for all users. Utilize our free life jacket loaner program, thanks to our partnership with St. Luke's Health System and Idaho River Sports.
All free life jacket loans are being coordinated through Idaho River Sports (601 N Whitewater Park Blvd.) located next to the ponds. If you borrow a jacket, please remember to return it so others can also access this important resource.
Send a Message to Fire Prevention
If this is an emergency, please call 911.