Photo: enderbychamber.com/File photo

Summer may be in full swing, but area rivers and creek flows remain high – and dangerous.

A popular pastime in the North Okanagan is floating down the Shuswap River in Enderby.

Countless numbers every year grab a floatie and hit the river to cool off – but it can be dangerous at the best of times. Given the current high water, it is even more hazardous.

“The Shuswap River is unseasonably high and fast moving,” warns the Shuswap River Ambassador program.

“During high water, we do not recommend going on the river on human-powered vessels – inflatables, stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, etc. There is fast-moving murky water conditions with an increased amount of debris, along with sweeper and log jams.”

Water temperatures are also cold, which can present a hazard in itself.

People are asked to use extra caution near river banks, especially with small children and weak swimmers.

“The river is always to be used at your own risk and discretion; we can only provide recommendations,” the SRA says.

Tuey Park/Waterwheel beaches and Kildonan Boat launch in Enderby remain closed due to high water.

The SRA has launched a website to better educate people about hazards on the river. It lists several safety recommendations:

• This is not a channel, there are sticks, log jams, undertows, sweepers, eddies, and other hazards that can pull you under or pop your vessel.
• Life jackets are required; on the river, you are a human-powered vessel.
• Watch for motorboats and ensure you can be seen. Stay near your flotation device when swimming.
• Do not tie together, people get pulled under if their rope gets caught up.

Conservation officers are on the river, and RCMP patrol beaches and launch sites.

Hitting the water with no life jacket, whistle and throw rope can net a fine between $200 and 500. Fines for littering range between $300 and 1,000, while open alcohol can warrant a fine of up to $230.

People parking in non-designated parking areas could also have their vehicle towed.

The website includes areas where people can launch from and strongly recommends against launching from the Kingfisher area as there are Class 4 rapids in that section of white water. Only professional kayakers/whitewater rafters should use the access, the SRA advises.