Xcel Energy observes Dam Safety Awareness Week
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Boaters and recreationists using the stretch of the Chippewa River just upstream from the Dells hydroelectric facility in Eau Claire are urged to use extreme caution because the boat safety barrier is not in place.
Typically, this time of year, Xcel Energy crews install a cable that runs across with a series of floats and marks a restricted area for boaters upstream of the dam. However, high river flows have made it difficult to safely get the barrier in place. As of May 5, river flows were estimated to be about 8,500 cubic feet per second (cfs).
Warning signs are posted at nearby boat landings.
Additionally, with the start of inland waterways fishing season, Xcel Energy is urging recreational and fishing enthusiasts to be safe around all hydro facilities. The message is part of Dam Safety Awareness Week, April 30-May 7, 2011, as declared by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
The purpose of Dam Safety Week is to heighten the safety awareness of recreational and fishing enthusiasts as they return to the waterways. Many of the accidents and fatalities that occur near dams could be prevented by using common sense, practicing safety, staying clear of dams and understanding the dangers to be found near them.
Some safety precautions include:
* Obey all warning signs, barriers and flashing lights, horns and sirens.
* Bring a cell phone and contact 911 in an emergency.
* Wear a personal floatation device (PFD), a life jacket.
* Always stay outside buoy lines and away from restricted areas near dams.
* Never swim near a dam.
* Never boat or fish alone when near a dam.
* Leave your boat motor running to provide maneuvering power.
* Stay clear of spillways; changing currents and “boiling” waves that can make boat control difficult near dams.
* Reverse currents occur below dams and can pull a boat back toward the dam into the spillway and capsize it.
* Never anchor boats below a dam because water levels can change rapidly.
* Especially in spring, cold water can cause hypothermia that could result in death from drowning.
* Always have a safe escape route planned when near a dam. Be prepared to evacuate at the first sign of danger.
Xcel Energy operates 19 hydro facilities on the Chippewa, Apple, Flambeau, Montreal, White, Namekagon, St. Croix and Red Cedar rivers. The company wants fishermen, boaters, outdoor enthusiasts and visitors to enjoy the many exceptional recreation resources to be found on rivers and around dams in the region.
