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Officials: Boise River levels "dangerous"

Posted at 10:17 AM, Apr 22, 2016
and last updated 2016-04-22 13:15:51-04

The Boise Fire Department says there are still “dangerous conditions” along the Boise River.

The Bureau of Reclamation anticipates water levels could rise to 6,200 CFS today.

“The City continues to ask the public to stay out of the water. Our greatest concern is for public safety and first responder safety,” said Boise Fire Department spokeswoman Tammy Barry.

The following hazards warrant the “Dangerous River Condition”:

--Swift water can carry people & pets away rapidly
--Cold water can cause even the best swimmer to be incapable of swimming due to loss of motor control/muscle control
--Significant debris in the river can injure people and contributes to rescue equipment failure
--Flooding conditions make access to river more dangerous
--Water levels are approaching bridge height making passing under a bridge extremely dangerous or not possible

Officials are reminding everyone:

--Do not recreate in the river.
--Keep pets leashed near the river, they will chase other animals into the swift water.
--Portions of the Greenbelt will likely be closed or have detours posted due to high water.  Closures will be posted on the City Parks & Recreation website.
--If someone gets into trouble call 9-1-1 immediately. The most important information you can provide to the dispatcher is how many people are in the water and the exact location where help is needed (closest street, bridge, park, what side of the river, etc.)