Navigating the Perils of Cold Water: Ensuring Safety on Arizona's Lakes

Every year, as temperatures rise and the allure of outdoor activities beckons, Arizonans flock to the state's picturesque lakes to enjoy recreational pursuits on the water. However, amidst the excitement of boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, it's crucial to remain vigilant about the potential dangers lurking beneath the surface, particularly the risk of hypothermia in cold water.

With 16 years of experience investigating boating accidents, Sgt. Robert Marske of the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office brings a wealth of knowledge to the forefront when it comes to understanding the hazards of springtime water activities. Marske emphasizes the deceptive nature of water temperatures during this time of year, cautioning that while the ambient air may feel warm, the water itself can remain chillingly cold.

"While the air temperature may be pleasant, hovering in the 70s and 80s, the water temperatures can be deceivingly cold. It's not uncommon for water temperatures to linger in the 50s and 60s, even as the weather warms up," explains Marske.

Contrary to popular belief, hypothermia can set in even in waters as seemingly mild as the high 70s. "We've seen instances where individuals have tragically lost their lives to hypothermia or where it has played a contributing factor in drowning incidents," Marske reveals.

The statistics from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office underscore the severity of the issue, with numerous drownings recorded in recent years within the lakes under MCSO jurisdiction. While the data doesn't explicitly distinguish between drowning and hypothermia-related incidents, a particularly tragic event in February 2022 saw two brothers succumb to hypothermia after capsizing their canoe at Lake Pleasant.

According to Marske, individuals most at risk are those who find themselves unexpectedly submerged in the water, such as kayakers, paddleboarders, and canoeists. "The body's instinctive response upon immersion is to gasp for air, which can lead to water entering the lungs and exacerbating the situation," he cautions.

In addition to the immediate dangers of cold water immersion, individuals also face the threat of "cold shock," a physiological response characterized by loss of breathing control, heart irregularities, and cognitive impairment, as outlined by the National Center for Cold Water Safety.

To mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of water enthusiasts, Marske and the MCSO advocate for a series of best practices:

Always wear a properly fitted life preserver or other Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) when engaging in water activities.

Use a rope or tether to remain connected to your watercraft at all times, reducing the risk of separation in the event of an accident.

Never venture onto the water alone; always have a companion present to provide assistance and support in case of emergency.

Keep your phone on your person, ideally stored in a waterproof container, to facilitate communication and summon help if needed.

If you find yourself unable to re-enter a capsized canoe or kayak, stay calm and attempt to pull yourself out of the water and onto the craft's surface to conserve body heat and maintain stability.

By adhering to these safety guidelines and remaining vigilant about the risks posed by cold water, individuals can enjoy their time on Arizona's lakes with greater confidence and peace of mind. As the springtime allure of outdoor recreation beckons, let's prioritize safety above all else and ensure that every adventure on the water is a safe and memorable one.