Springfield and Willamalane Urge River Users to Wear Life Jackets and Know the Hazards

The City of Springfield, Willamalane Park and Recreation District, and Eugene Springfield Fire are urging community members to take additional precautions when recreating on local rivers this summer

Recent water rescues in the Springfield area are an important reminder that the Willamette and McKenzie rivers can present serious and sometimes hidden hazards. River conditions can change quickly, and strong currents, cold water, submerged trees and debris, and structures such as low-head dams can place even experienced swimmers and paddlers at risk.

“Recent rescues are an important reminder that river conditions can change quickly and hazards are not always visible from the surface,” said Eugene Springfield Fire Chief Mike Caven. “Wearing a properly fitted life jacket, knowing your route and exit point, and following posted warnings can make the difference between a safe day on the water and a life-threatening emergency.”

Wear a Life Jacket

River users should wear a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket whenever they are on or near moving water. Life jackets are important for people of every age and swimming ability.

A free life jacket loaner station is available at Clearwater Park, 2400 Clearwater Lane in Springfield. Community members who do not have a life jacket may borrow one before entering the water and return it after use so it remains available to others.

The loaner station is supported by Eugene Springfield Fire, Cabela’s, Lane Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 851, and Willamalane.

“Willamalane is grateful for our partnership with Eugene Springfield Fire to help improve water safety,” said Eric Adams, Willamalane Chief Operating Officer. “A properly worn lifejacket can be the difference between life and death, even for the most experience and strongest swimmer. We hope the community takes advantage of the life jackets available at Clearwater Park, which could help prevent more tragic drownings.”

Know the Route Before Entering the Water

The Willamette and McKenzie rivers are dynamic waterways, not controlled swimming areas or amusement park attractions. Conditions and hazards may change from one trip to the next.

Before entering the water:

• Research the route, entry point, and planned exit point.
• Check river conditions and weather forecasts.
• Read all posted warning and regulatory signs.
• Wear a life jacket and carry a whistle or other sound-producing device.
• Use a kayak, raft, paddleboard, or other vessel that allows you to steer and respond to hazards.
• Watch for submerged trees, branches, rocks, debris, and changing currents.
• Avoid alcohol and other substances that can affect judgment, balance, or reaction time.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Do not enter the water alone.

Paddleboard users should understand that some leashes can become entangled in branches, rocks, or other hazards in moving water. The Oregon State Marine Board recommends using a body-mounted, quick-release leash designed for moving water, or not using a leash when conditions make entanglement a greater risk. Users should know how to release the leash before entering the water.

Avoid the Low-Head Dam

People traveling downstream on the Willamette River should plan to exit at the West D Street Boat Ramp before reaching the low-head dam located near Interstate 5.

Low-head dams can create powerful recirculating currents that may trap people, boats, and flotation devices. The danger can be difficult to recognize from upstream.

River users should:

• Exit the river at the West D Street Boat Ramp.
• Follow all posted warnings and directional signs.
• Never attempt to travel over, across, or through the low-head dam.
• Rivers are dynamic – always stay alert for unexpected hazards.
• Call 911 immediately if someone is in danger. Do not enter hazardous water to attempt a rescue without proper equipment and training.

“Springfield’s rivers are important community resources, but enjoying them safely requires preparation and sound judgment,” said Springfield Mayor Sean VanGordon. “We encourage everyone to wear a life jacket, understand the route, follow posted warnings, and make safety part of every trip.”

Community members can learn more about paddling, life jackets, required equipment, and water safety through the Oregon State Marine Board.