NEW ORLEANS – The Coast Guard urges anyone going out on the Mississippi River to understand the risks associated with high water and strong currents.
Higher than average water levels create very strong and swift currents, which result in large amounts of debris, and can lead to dangerous situations on the Mississippi River.
The stronger than normal currents can create rips and eddies in places where they might not have been before, which can pull a boat or a person into a dangerous situation very quickly.
The easiest safety measure anyone can take is to always wear a lifejacket when operating on or around the river. Boaters should double-check that required equipment such as visual and audio distress signals, personal flotation devices and a fire extinguisher are present and in working condition, and never boat under the influence of alcohol.
For more safe boating information, please visit USCGBoating.