By Iowa DNR and HSEM Public Information

Des Moines, Iowa — As warmer weather arrives, Iowa’s lakes, rivers, and streams will soon bustle with paddlers, boaters, swimmers, and families enjoying everything from fossil hunting and rock collecting to driftwood searches and shoreline cleanups. While water activities offer refreshing fun and connection with nature, officials emphasize that preparation is key to preventing tragedies, particularly accidental drownings.

Iowa rivers are dynamic systems that can change rapidly with weather and flow conditions. Recent consistent rainfall has left many rivers in northwest, north-central, and central Iowa swollen and swift. Authorities recommend sticking to lakes and flat-water areas until river levels subside. Hidden dangers lurk just beneath the surface, including sudden drop-offs, holes, submerged shelves, rock ledges, and strong currents that can deceive even experienced swimmers.

“Water is refreshing and fun, but it’s essential to know how to stay safe in and around water,” state officials stress. Cold water temperatures—often well below 70 degrees even as air feels summery—pose a significant risk. Cold water can reduce body heat 25 to 30 times faster than air at the same temperature. Upon sudden immersion, the body’s instinctive “cold shock” response can cause uncontrollable gasping, potentially leading to water inhalation. Panic is common, but individuals typically have about one minute to regain control of their breathing and execute a self-rescue plan.

Drowning itself is often swift and silent, with little splashing or calling for help. It can occur with as little as half a cup of water in the lungs. Awareness of these realities, combined with practical precautions, can make all the difference.

Swimming Safety Essentials

•  Ease in slowly: Never dive into unknown waters. Enter gradually to assess depth and conditions.

•  Buddy system: Always swim with a companion.

•  Skill refresh: If it’s been years since regular swimming, rebuild confidence and ability. Ensure all children receive formal swimming lessons.

•  Life jackets: Wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times, especially for children. Have kids put them on before entering the water.

•  Supervision: Maintain constant, close watch over children—close enough to touch. Designate a specific adult “water watcher” and avoid assumptions that others are monitoring. Strong currents in even ankle-deep water can sweep people into deeper areas.

•  Hypothermia awareness: Watch for early signs such as shivering, blue lips, slurred speech, drowsiness, low energy, or confusion.

•  CPR readiness: Learn or refresh CPR skills through local hospitals, workplaces, or medical offices. Quick response saves lives.

•  Hydration: Carry and drink plenty of water. Dehydration symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea can creep up quickly in sun and activity.

Paddling and Kayaking/Canoeing Safety

Paddlers should treat rivers with extra respect due to changing conditions and obstacles.

•  Always wear a properly fitted life jacket. Iowa law requires children under 13 to wear one at all times when the vessel is underway, and vessels must carry enough for everyone on board.

•  Paddle in a group rather than alone.

•  Share a detailed float plan with a trusted contact: access points, route, and expected return time.

•  Avoid low-head dams: These create deadly recirculating currents, often hard to spot from upstream. Heed warning signs, listen for rushing water, and scout on foot when uncertain.

•  Steer clear of strainers like downed trees, bridge piers, scrap metal, or rock clusters. Avoid wading in fast-moving water.

•  Check current river conditions via the Iowa DNR Customer Service (515-725-8200), local county conservation boards, or the interactive paddling map at www.iowadnr.gov/paddlingmap. Bridge construction may affect some areas.

•  Pack smart: Use a dry bag for extra clothes, a first-aid kit, and a protected phone or weather radio. Wear quick-drying clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring ample water.

•  Explore water trail maps and access points at iowadnr.gov/water-trail-maps.

Boating Safety Fundamentals

•  No alcohol: Alcohol and boating are a dangerous mix. Sun, wind, glare, and motion intensify impairment.

•  Wear life jackets as noted above.

•  Inspect ramps, trailers (lights, bearings, hitch), and water hazards before departure.

•  Ensure boats carry a current fire extinguisher, horn/whistle, wearable life jackets for all, and a throwable USCG-approved device.

•  File a float plan with a responsible person.

•  Boater education is required for operators ages 12-17 on motorboats over 10 horsepower or personal watercraft. Courses are strongly recommended for all.

New Resources: Plan, Protect, and Play

To simplify summer safety, the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have launched ready.iowa.gov/summersafety. The site organizes advice around three pillars:

•  Plan: Sign up for Alert Iowa notifications or download the Smart911 app. Access resources for hikes, camping, and outings.

•  Protect: Tips on hydration, sun safety, and managing summer pests.

•  Play: Guidance on safe boating, DNR licenses, and responsible outdoor enjoyment.

HSEM will continue sharing seasonal resources on social media throughout spring and summer. Follow @IowaHSEM on Facebook and X.