San Andreas, CA…On April 22nd, the Calaveras County Volunteer Search and Rescue Team conducted their annual swift water rescue training. The training consisted of locating lost persons along the river, accessing them and transporting them safely to shore. This was a refresher course designed to sharpen skills prior to what is expected as a high volume attendance season. The Calaveras Search and Rescue Team would like to remind everyone to remain vigilant while visiting the rivers and tributaries.

The following are a few tips to help ensure your outings are safe and enjoyable:

• As always, tell someone where you are going and when you should be returning

• Wear a life vest at all times while in the water

•Be mindful of displaced snakes, the rise in water levels has displaced snakes from their dens.

• Be aware that mountain water is extremely cold, despite hot air temperatures. Strong swimmers may quickly become too weak from hypothermia to swim. Even professional swift-water rescuers wearing layers of insulation sometimes struggle to stay warm!

• A slow current will take you where you may not want to go.

• Watch for water hazards, like submerged tree branches, abandoned cables, or narrow gaps between rocks, which can trap you underwater; causing injuries, hypothermia and even death. The pressure from a “slow” current can be enough to immobilize you against an obstacle and keep you submerged.

The Calaveras County Volunteer Search and Rescue Team is accepting applications for membership. Positions from command post assistant to back-country alpine searcher are available.The team offers an excellent opportunity to serve your community and help others who are in need. No experience is necessary, all training provided. Please visit Calaverassar.org for more information.