Water Safety at Lake Pleasant
Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a popular place to cool off during the warmer months. Visitors often enjoy floating on rafts and tubes at Fireman’s Cove, Coles Bay, and Humbug Cove. On summer weekdays, the calm water also attracts competitive swimmers.
While the lake offers many recreational opportunities, safety should always come first.
Know Before You Enter the Water
- Lake Pleasant is a man-made reservoir. Water depth can change quickly due to fluctuating water levels and underwater terrain.
- You may be standing in shallow water and suddenly encounter much deeper areas. Water temperature decreases with depth.
- Sudden exposure to colder water can cause an involuntary gasp reflex, increasing the risk of inhaling water.
- Even strong swimmers can be affected by unexpected depth changes and temperature shifts.
Wear a Life Jacket
Regardless of experience level, wearing a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is strongly recommended.
Life jackets are especially important if:
- You are unfamiliar with the area
- You are not an experienced swimmer
- You are floating on a tube or raft Water depths are unknown
Wearing a life jacket is the most effective way to reduce the risk of drowning.
Swimming Safety
Swimming and other water activities can be a great way to stay active and cool off at the lake. Before entering the water, take steps to reduce the risk of sunburn, illness, dehydration, and drowning.
Water Safety Tips
- Swim with a partner. Avoid swimming alone whenever possible.
- Supervise children closely. Never leave young children unattended near water. Do not rely on another child to supervise them.
- Stay focused. Avoid distractions when watching children near the water.
- Check the water first. If a child goes missing, look in the water immediately.
- Wear a life jacket. Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD).
Sun Protection
- Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun.
- Use sunscreen and reapply regularly when swimming or spending time outdoors.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
- Avoid drinks containing caffeine or alcohol, which can increase dehydration.
Cold Water Immersion
Cold water immersion can quickly lead to a dangerous condition known as immersion hypothermia.
Unlike standard hypothermia, immersion hypothermia develops faster because water removes body heat approximately 25 times faster than air.
Many people do not consider themselves at risk in moderate climates. However, hypothermia can occur in water temperatures below 70°F.
How to Reduce Risk
Survival time in cold water can be increased by taking proper precautions:
Wear Appropriate Clothing
- Choose wool or synthetic materials
- Avoid cotton, which loses insulation when wet
Use Proper Safety Equipment
- Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD)
- Consider an immersion suit or dry suit in colder conditions
Be Prepared for Rescue
Carry signaling and communication devices such as:
- Strobe lights
- Personal locator beacon
- Whistle
- Flares
- Waterproof radio
Having a flotation device and a reliable way to signal for help significantly improves safety in emergency situations.