Xcel Energy urges safety near dams
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EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Xcel Energy is urging recreational and fishing enthusiasts to be safe around dams and hydroelectric facilities.
With the early inland trout fishing season under way and the fishing opener just a few weeks away, the company is stressing the importance of safety near dams and on waterways to help prevent accidents.
“Boating or canoeing above or below a dam can be very dangerous, especially if the flow changes and your boat is anchored in a hazardous area,” said Rob Olson, Hydro Operations at Xcel Energy. “If there’s a sudden water discharge from the spillway gates, you risk capsizing.”
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.
Xcel Energy is a member of the Midwest Hydro Users Group, an association of dam owners who promote safe, efficient, economical and environmentally friendly use of hydroelectric power. The group urges outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the many recreational resources that can be found on the rivers in Wisconsin and offers these tips for personal safety near dams:
• Obey all warning signs, barriers and flashing lights, horns and sirens.
• Wear a personal flotation device – a life jacket.
• Always stay outside buoy lines and away from restricted areas near dams.
• Never swim or wade 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 can make boat control difficult near dams.
• Reverse currents occur below dams. They 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.
• Bring a cell phone and contact 9-1-1 in an emergency.
• Set an example for children, who may not be aware of the dangers, even if they can read. State explicitly where they can and cannot go and make sure you are close to them and can see them at all times.
For more information, visit www.xcelenergy.com and click on “Hydro Safety” at the bottom of the page. The Hydro Safety website also includes information to help residents respond in a timely fashion in the unlikely event of a dam failure, including maps and details about the warning siren system.
