Unlighted Marking System/Buoys:
- The lake level is subject to fluctuation. Be alert for hazards which may appear with changing water levels.
- Observe buoys and markers. Do not rely on markers alone, always keep a sharp lookout.
- Buoy bands and messages are highly reflective. Use a spotlight and extra caution at night.
- Boaters operate at their own risk. Be extra cautious near shorelines, points, and islands. Lake Pleasant Regional Park does not guarantee all hazards are marked.
- It is unlawful to tamper with or moor to buoys or markers.
Fluctuating Water Levels:
During the fall and winter months, Central Arizona Project (CAP) pumps Colorado River water into Lake Pleasant, and releases water during the spring and summer to meet higher water demands.
When water is being pumped out of the lake, the water levels at Lake Pleasant fluctuate and hazards such as small islands in the water surface. Please keep your eyes on the waterways during this time to avoid these hazards.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) can harm and even kill you inside or outside your boat!
Did you know:
- CO symptoms are similar to seasickness or alcohol intoxication and it can affect you whether you're underway, moored, or anchored.
- You cannot see, smell, or taste CO.
- CO can make you sick in seconds. In high enough concentrations, even a few breaths can be fatal.
Carbon monoxide poisonings are preventable. Every boater should be aware of the risks, what it is, where it may accumulate, and the symptoms. To protect yourself and those around you, educate yourself on carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Mild: Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigure
- Medium: Severe headache, confusion, drowsiness, rapid heart rate
- Extreme: Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio-respiratory failure, death
Heat Exhaustion
Learn the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses.
Heat Exhaustion:
- Faint or dizzy
- Excessive sweating and cool, pale, clammy skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, weak pulse and muscle cramps
Heat Stroke:
- Throbbing headach and no sweating
- Body temperature above 103°, red, hot, dry skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid, strong pulse, and may lose consciousness
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Naegleria Fowleri
Naegleria is a type of ameba (a single-celled living organism) commonly found in warm freshwater and soil. It can be present in lakes, rivers, hot springs, and other warm water environments.
Only one species, Naegleria fowleri, can infect people.
How Infection Occurs
Naegleria fowleri infects people when water containing the ameba enters the body through the nose. Infection does not occur from drinking contaminated water.
Infections are rare. Most cases have occurred when individuals:
- Swim or dive in warm freshwater lakes or rivers
- Submerge their heads in warm freshwater
- Force water up their nose
- Use contaminated tap water for nasal rinsing or sinus irrigation
Although uncommon, the organism can grow in pipes, hot water heaters, and water systems, including treated public water systems.
How to Reduce Risk
To lower the risk of infection:
- Avoid getting water up your nose when swimming in warm freshwater
- Use nose clips or keep your head above water in warm freshwater
- Avoid disturbing sediment in shallow, warm freshwater areas
- Use only distilled, sterile, or properly boiled water for nasal rinsing
Personal prevention efforts focus on limiting water entering the nose and reducing potential exposure.
To learn more about Naegleria fowleri and it's symptoms, visit: University of Arizona
Personal Flotation Devices (PDFs) and Life Jackets. Wear them!
Life Jacket Safety
All boats must carry a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for every person on board. While having life jackets available is required, safety experts strongly recommend that everyone wear a life jacket at all times while boating.
Boating accidents can happen quickly. In many emergencies, there may not be enough time to locate and put on a stored life jacket.
Why Life Jackets Matter
According to boating safety data:
- Drowning is the leading cause of death in recreational boating accidents.
- Most victims were not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
Wearing a life jacket significantly increases your chance of survival if you enter the water unexpectedly.
Modern Life Jackets
Today’s life jackets are designed to be more comfortable and easier to wear than older models. Many options are:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Designed for specific boating activities
- Available in inflatable styles that resemble suspenders or belt packs
- Equipped with automatic inflation when immersed in water
Because modern life jackets are more comfortable, they are easier to wear throughout your time on the water.
Stay Safe on the Water
The best way to stay safe is simple:
Wear your life jacket whenever you are on the water.
Life jackets save lives.
Swimmers Itch
It is a rash caused by a tiny bird parasite that can occur in natural bodies of water and has been reported in lakes throughout Arizona. To learn more, visit:
Swimming
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Swimming and other water activities can be a great way to stay active and cool off at the lake. Before entering the water, take a few simple steps to help prevent sunburn, illness, dehydration, and drowning.
Stay Safe in the Water
- Swim with a partner. Avoid swimming alone.
- Supervise children closely. Never leave young children unattended near water.
- Stay focused. Avoid distractions when supervising children.
- Check the water first. If a child goes missing, look in the water immediately.
- Use life jackets. Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD).
Protect Yourself from the Sun
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) before entering the water.
- Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially after swimming.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from sun exposure.
Prevent Dehydration
- Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
- Avoid drinks containing caffeine or alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
Weather
Weather conditions at Lake Pleasant Regional Park can change quickly. Visitors should monitor weather conditions before and during their visit and be prepared to adjust plans if storms or high winds develop.
Monitor Weather Conditions
- Check weather forecasts before arriving at the park.
- Continue to monitor conditions throughout your visit.
- Current weather information is available from the National Weather Service.
Wind Warning System
Lake Pleasant uses a wind warning light system to alert boaters when dangerous wind conditions are developing.
When warning lights are activated, boaters should:
- Use caution and prepare for changing water conditions.
- Head toward a safe location or designated boat ramp as soon as possible.
Wind can increase rapidly on the lake, creating rough water and hazardous boating conditions.
Wash and Flood Safety
- Stay out of desert washes during storm conditions.
- Even if the wash is dry where you are, water may be flowing downstream from storms several miles away.
Boating Safety During Storms
If you are on the water:
- Return to a boat ramp or safe shoreline before conditions become dangerous.
- Avoid waiting until the last minute, as boat ramps and docks may become crowded during storms.
- Ensure that U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets are available for everyone on board.