Enjoying Dallas’ Trinity River: Safety Tips For Water Activities
Dallas’ Trinity River is a popular outdoor recreation site for tourists and locals alike. On the weekends, in particular, it’s common to see the river’s shores and surface dotted with kayakers, paddleboarders, and people fishing for catfish. However, water activities always come with a risk of injuries.
Before you head out to enjoy a day on the water in Dallas, it’s a good idea to review water safety tips that can help you stay safe while you’re enjoying all the Trinity River has to offer.
Do Your Research
If you don’t know the area well, you will want to start by researching local rules and access points like the Trinity River Gateway Parks. Planning ahead is key whenever you’re considering heading out in a canoe or some other type of watercraft.
Know where the current will take you, and have a plan for your return trip. If you’re new to a certain water activity, consider taking an instructional class beforehand, or stick with a tour group.
It’s also worth noting that while swimming in the Trinity River in Fort Worth is a common practice, it may not be wise to do so in the part of the river that flows through Dallas. The strong current can be dangerous and has led to the deaths of a number of swimmers. There are also concerns that the river’s cleanliness makes it unsafe for swimming.
Practice Smart Packing
You don’t want to set out a day on the water empty-handed.
Items you may want to keep on hand include:
- Water
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Sun protection accessories like sunglasses and a hat
- Charged cell phone in a waterproof pouch
- Small first aid kit
You should always wear a life jacket when participating in water activities. It’s also important to remember that the Dallas heat makes it easy to become dehydrated, especially if you’re rowing a kayak or canoe. Make sure you have enough water available for all members of your party, and don’t forget to take breaks to rehydrate.
Review Water Safety Practices
Knowing basic water safety is essential for anyone who enjoys spending time on the Trinity River. Before you let the current take you downriver, make sure you’re confident about operating your craft both with and against the current. Knowing how to steer and maintain control is essential for avoiding collisions and capsizing.
Water accidents often lead to brain injuries. In the worst cases, accidents in the water can be fatal. It’s important to have basic knowledge of CPR and what to do if a member of your party swallows water or gets stuck underwater. Ensure you have a plan prepared for scenarios where you lose an oar or your vessel gets away from you.
Communicate Your Plans
It’s never smart to float off down the Trinity River without informing anyone of your plans. Even if you’re an experienced boater, you should still let friends or family know the basic details of your trip.
This includes:
- Where you’re launching from
- How long do you plan to be on the water
- Any destinations or stopping points you have planned
- When and where you will return
If something should go wrong, someone needs to know that you’re missing. Giving details about your plans can help a rescue team know exactly where to look.
Stay Safe on the Trinity River in Dallas, TX
Spending the day on the Trinity River is one of the most fun and relaxing recreational activities Dallas has to offer. With proper planning and attention to water safety, you can greatly reduce your risk of experiencing an accident.
If you do suffer an accident while participating in a water activity on the Trinity River, make sure to see a doctor and attend a consultation with a Dallas personal injury lawyer to discuss your options for obtaining compensation.
Contact Our Dallas Personal Injury Lawyers at Jay Murray Personal Injury Lawyers For More Help
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Dallas, Texas, and need legal help, contact our Dallas personal injury lawyers at Jay Murray Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
Jay Murray Personal Injury Lawyers
2512 State St,
Dallas, TX 75201
(214) 855-1420
