Since 1883, each year, in early spring, our canals are filled with irrigation water for delivery to farms, other districts, refuges, and the ecosystem in Klamath, Modoc, and Siskiyou Counties. Our records indicate some gruesome accounts of folks that ignored basic safety protocols. Here is a friendly reminder…<\/p>\n
The water from canals is being returned to former lakes and wetlands, and is the lifeblood for our local farms. It can also be dangerous for people walking or playing near the canals. Fast underwater currents, especially in irrigation canals, can knock people down and quickly sweep them away. Irrigation canals often have steep, slippery sides that are almost impossible to climb. Some canals have culverts and gratings that might create a trap.<\/p>\n
We ask parents to take time each year to review canal safety and share it with their children.<\/p>\n
Our message to the community is \u201cStay Out and Stay Alive!\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2022 Don\u2019t swim or wade in canals \u2014 ever!<\/p>\n
\u2022 Keep a safe distance from the edges of the canals. Canal sides are extremely slick, making it difficult to get out.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing are prohibited<\/p>\n
\u2022 Keep pets away from the water and dogs on leashes.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Stay away from the equipment at water delivery gates.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Respect property rights. Not all canals are open to the public. Respect gates.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Don\u2019t litter or dump trash…someone is going to be responsible for cleaning up our environment<\/p>\n
\u2022 Never jump in to rescue pets, toys or other objects.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Call 911 if someone falls in. Do not jump in to try to save them. Reach with a hand or an object, or throw them anything buoyant they can grab.<\/p>\n
Please be careful and use good judgment when recreating near the canals and ditches.<\/p>\n
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