Stay Safe on the Water, Especially Near Dams

If you’re heading out to enjoy the warm Memorial Day weekend along the Snake River, Idaho Power wants you to know how to stay safe near dams. It’s also National Safety Boating Week — another reminder to stay safe on the water.

Idaho Power says boaters, swimmers, and recreators should use special caution around their 17 hydroelectric projects located along the Snake River and its tributaries. 

Idaho Power cautions:

  • Don’t wade, swim, fish, or take boats near dam or spillways. Water levels can change rapidly without warning. Strong, unseen currents could also pull you underwater.
  • Stay behind all buoy lines and cables with warning signs, which are there to keep you a safe distance from dams.
  • Keep off the banks next to the spillway, and don’t climb over protective fences near spillways, dams, and substations.
  • Wear a life jacket. Idaho Power has several kiosks with various sizes of life jackets you can borrow.

To learn more safety tips and where you can borrow a life jacket, visit idahopower.com/safety

Maria Willacy 
Digital Communications Professional 
mwillacy@idahopower.com 
208-388-5978