~ As the summer season kicks off and families flock to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities in Eastern Idaho, the Idaho Falls Fire Department is urging residents to prioritize safety. With a few simple precautions, injuries, emergencies, and property damage can be prevented.

One of the main concerns for the fire department is water safety. Despite the rising temperatures, rivers and reservoirs in Idaho remain dangerously cold due to alpine snowmelt. This can lead to involuntary gasping, cold-water shock, and muscle failure even for experienced swimmers. The Snake River, irrigation canals, and other waterways are especially hazardous due to strong currents and hidden hazards.

To stay safe while enjoying water activities, the fire department recommends wearing a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times. Children under 14 are required by law to wear a life jacket while on watercrafts under 19 feet in length. It is also important to never swim alone and closely supervise children around water. Swimming or wading in irrigation canals is strictly prohibited as it is not only dangerous but also illegal.

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In addition to being cautious around water, residents should also be mindful of bicycle safety during the summer months. With more cyclists on the roadways and riverwalks, both cyclists and motorists need to remain alert and respectful of each other. The fire department advises wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet at all times and following traffic laws when riding near vehicles. Cyclists should also use lights or reflectors when riding at night and wear bright or reflective clothing for visibility.

Under Idaho's "Idaho Stop" law, cyclists are allowed to treat stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs when conditions allow. However, on the Idaho Falls riverwalk, cyclists must yield to pedestrians and provide an audible warning before passing.

When it comes to summer grilling, it's important to take extra precautions in Eastern Idaho's dry climate with windy conditions. The fire department reminds residents to keep grills at a safe distance from buildings, decks, and other combustible materials. It is also crucial to never leave a grill unattended while cooking and to properly dispose of charcoal ashes by soaking them with water.

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Residents should also be aware of local fire restrictions and burn bans before grilling outdoors. In multi-family housing settings, open-flame cooking devices such as gas and charcoal grills are prohibited on combustible balconies and within 10 feet of combustible construction.

"Summer is a time for making memories outdoors, but it only takes a moment for an enjoyable activity to become an emergency," said Fire Marshal Scott Grimmett. "By taking a few simple precautions and staying aware of your surroundings, you can help protect yourself, your family, and our community all season long."

For more summer safety tips and emergency preparedness resources, residents can visit the Idaho Falls Fire Department website. By following these safety tips and being mindful of potential hazards, everyone can enjoy a safe and fun summer in Eastern Idaho.

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