Basic Water Safety Tips

To help keep you and your family safe, here are some basic water safety tips from the Boise Fire Department.

• 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.