April 23 GRDA Weekly Update
The Killer in Our River: Understanding Safety Around Dams
Each year, dozens of lives are lost on America’s waterways at structures called low-head, low-water or “run-of-the-river” dams. Among the victims are boaters, kayakers, swimmers, anglers and emergency responders.
Low-head dams are characterized by their low height — usually with a one foot to 15 foot drop off — which allows water to flow over the top of the dam. Below the surface, the water falling over the dam creates highly aerated, circulating currents that trap people and objects underwater against the face of the dam. These forces are a practically inescapable trap for even the strongest, life-jacket-clad swimmer or boats and kayaks. People are often unaware of these dangers, or they underestimate their risk of falling victim to them. Due to this danger, these structures have earned the title of “the killer in our river” or “drowning machines.”
The low-water dam on the Grand River below Kerr Dam is one of the low-water dams on GRDA waters that is a popular location for local anglers. But it can also be a site of extreme danger for those that venture out on or near the dam due to rapidly fluctuating water levels. It is not unusual for anglers to stand on the low water dams to fish. When GRDA opens floodgates or begins flowing water through the generators at the Kerr Dam upstream, water levels can rise within minutes, trapping those that are on the dam in an area of swiftly moving, high waters. In order to warn anglers of these conditions, GRDA has a system of warning sirens and flashing lights near the low-water dam to warn people to stay off the dam due to rising water.
Studies indicate 377 fatalities occurred at low-head dams from 1960 to August 2016, with the majority – 91 percent – occurring from April through August during the summer recreation season. Swimming, boating and fishing account for most incidents at dams in the United States.
If you choose to go out on a waterway for recreational purposes, make sure to study the area closely beforehand, or ask a local for more information about dam locations. It is important to be aware of the location of these structures, so you are ready to exit the water if you are approaching one. As you go out, make sure you follow these tips:
· Study a map beforehand to locate potential dams and hazard locations or ask a local for more information about dam locations.
· Always be alert for potentially dangerous situations.
· Always portage around the structure or turn around well before reaching the dam when kayaking, canoeing or boating.
· Obey all posted signage and barriers in the area. Many of these structures will have warning sirens and lights to warn that water levels will be rising, so stay away from these structures when warning signals are activated.
· Let someone know when and where you are heading out and when to expect your return.
· Never enter the water to try and help someone. Instead, call 911 and use a remote assist device, such as a rope or throw bag, to try and pull them back to safety.
It is also helpful to get in touch with local recreation outfits, such as float operators, kayak and boat rentals, hiking groups, conservation groups, and others to discuss their education programs. These groups are often the best experts in the area and can be a great resource.
The most important tip is to remember — “Keep Your Distance, Keep Your Life”. Always stay a safe distance away from low-water dams both upstream and downstream to avoid drowning. Currents around low-water dams can be swift and unpredictable. It is critically important to not only understand the scope of this danger but also to be aware of the many ways you can keep yourself and others safe and avoid a tragedy. And remember — Keep Your Distance, Keep Your Life.
Dangerous Waters
The Low Water Dam on the Grand River below Kerr Dam is a popular area for anglers. But rapidly rising waters can be life-endangering for those that ignore the audible sirens and flashing lights that warn people to stay off the dam.
The photo right was the scene of a rescue two years ago at the Low Water Dam that put a dozen emergency responders in jeopardy to save the life of a man that failed to heed the warning signals at the dam.
GRDA Police are having to respond to the Low Water Dam daily to keep it clear of people that fail to get off the dam when water levels increase.
Adopt The Shoreline
If Your Property is on the Lake
Adopt the Shoreline Cleanup Efforts Underway
During the weekend of April 12, Zone 3 Coordinator Mike Fry, Adopt the Shoreline Volunteers, and GRDA conducted a shoreline cleanup in Zone 3 which extends from the mouth of Duck Creek to Red Arrow Marina. The cleanup efforts resulted in 1.39 tons of trash and Styrofoam being removed from the shoreline.
GRDA has seen a reduction in the amount of Styrofoam and trash on the shorelines of Grand Lake. This can be attributed the efforts of volunteers and the GRDA Cleanup Crew who work throughout the year to maintain the shorelines. In 2018, the combined efforts resulted in 124 tons of Styrofoam and trash being removed.
GRDA would like to thank the following groups who participated in this cleanup:
- Hometown Real Estate Group (Vinita)
- Gran Tara HOA
- Red Arrow HOA
- Woodland Shores HOA
- Two Tree Estates HOA
- Copper Cove & Preston Point HOA
- Paradise Cove Homeowners
- Coves Garden Club
- Vintage Home Owners
- GRDA Shoreline Cleanup Crew
A special "Thanks" to Zone 3 Coordinator Mike Fry who coordinated this effort, ensuring the continued success of the program.
Is Your Boat Registration Current
Small Vessel Registration Laws Changing
Governor Stitt recently signed HB 1156 that will amend state statute Title 63 O.S. 2011, Sections 4002, for the registration of small, human powered vessels to include canoes, paddleboats & kayaks. Effective November 1, 2019, the small human-powered vessels will not require state registration if “such vessel is a canoe, kayak or paddleboat as defined in Section 4002 of this title, except that such vessels, when powered by any means other than human power, shall be titled and registered pursuant to the provisions of the Oklahoma Vessel and Motor Registration Act. At the request of the owner, any vessel exempt from the title and registration provisions of this section shall be titled and registered pursuant to the provisions of the Oklahoma Vessel and Motor Registration Act for the purposes of proof of ownership or vessel identification. All title and registration fees shall be paid by the owner of the vessel.”
Quick Reference Guide
Did You Know?
Make sure more than one person on board is familiar with all aspects of your boat’s handling, operations, and general boating safety. If the primary navigator is injured or incapacitated in any way, it’s important to make sure someone else can follow the proper boating safety rules to get everyone else back to shore.
Safety Education Programs
Updates on the Web
Did you not receive our latest GRDA Update? Do you have a friend that wants to see our Updates? You can now go to our website at GRDA.com to view the latest edition of GRDA Police Updates. Go to the Lakes/River tab, open the GRDA Police tab and click on the GRDA Police Update for the latest version of our email release.
Boating Tips From Americas Boating Club - Grand Lake
The most cautious boaters can sometimes experience unexpected problems on the water. That's why the U.S. Coast Guard recommends that all recreational boaters, including personal watercraft and paddle sport users, take advantage of the free Vessel Safety Check program every year.
The Grand Lake Power Squadron has certified vessel examiners that can do a courtesy safety check at your boat – whether in a slip, at the launch ramp, or in your driveway at a mutually-convenient time. It usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending upon the size of your boat. They are also qualified to issue the GRDA safety inspection decal. If your boat does not pass, no report is filed. Instead you are provided a written report that aids you in correcting any discrepancies noted.
To arrange a vessel check by the local boating club, visit our website: grandlakeusps.com and click on more, then vessel safety check program followed with VSC request. Also check with your local marina when vessel checks are scheduled there.
Interested in becoming more confident in your boating skills? Boat Smart and take a course online or in the classroom from America’s Boating Club, the United States Power Squadrons. For more information visit americasboatingclub.org or grandlakeusps.com, on Facebook: glsps.
Partner in Command Seminar Presented by America’s Boating Club - Grand Lake
The Grand Lake Power Squadron (America’s Boating Club - Grand Lake) offers a variety of courses relating to boating safety, operation, and handling and is offering a Partner in Command Seminar on Monday, May 6, 2019. The course will run from 1:30 PM to approximately 4:30 PM at the Grove Visitor's Center (9630 US Highway 59N).
Are you a crew member or passenger who has no idea what's going on during a boat trip? Learn the essential skills you will need to help the skipper safely operate a recreational boat, including how to respond in an emergency. You'll become an asset on board with Partner in Command.
The Partner in Command seminar includes an introduction to boating, understanding anchoring, docking, and navigation, preparing for bad weather, first aid, on-board emergencies, and more.
This comprehensive seminar comes with a full color Student Guide.
What's Included?
· Boat Handling in Emergency Situations
· On the Water Communications Systems
· Calling for help
· Signaling equipment
· Safety and safety equipment
· First aid
· Starting and running the engine
· Tool kits
The cost is $15.00 per person payable at the commencement of the seminar.
Please contact Bob Russell by May 3, at robren95@aol.com (email) or call 918-787-9245 to register for this seminar.
NAV TIME
A Summary of Boating Laws, Navigation Regulations & Tips
That All Boat Operators Should Know
Visual Distress Signals (VDSs)
Visual Distress Signals (VDSs) allow vessel operators to signal for help in the event of an emergency.
Vessels on federally controlled waters must be equipped with visual distress signals that are U.S. Coast Guard–approved, in serviceable condition, and readily accessible.
All vessels, regardless of length or type, are required to carry night signals when operating between sunset and sunrise. Most vessels must carry day signals also; exceptions to the requirement for day signals are:
- Recreational vessels that are less than 16 feet in length
- Non-motorized open sailboats that are less than 26 feet in length
- Manually propelled vessels
If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, a minimum of three must carried in the vessel.
Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals
- Orange Smoke—Handheld
- Orange Smoke—Floating
- Day Signal
- Red Meteor
- Day and Night Signal
- Red Flare
- Day and Night Signal
Non-Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals
- Electric Light
- Night Signal
- Orange Flag
- Day Signal
Arm Signal
Although this signal does not meet VDS equipment requirements, wave your arms to summon help if you do not have other distress signals on board.
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