Officials urge water safety ahead of July 4 after 20 water deaths so far this year

DENVER (KDVR) — There have been 20 water-related deaths in Colorado so far this year, which is closing in on last year’s total number of 32.

Officials are stressing the importance of practicing water safety, especially before the Fourth of July, which is typically a heavy water recreation holiday.

Nationwide, multiple organizations are participating in Operation Dry Water, a year-round boating under the influence and enforcement campaign. The heightened awareness and enforcement will take place from July 4 to 6.

On Saturday, Bear Creek Lake Park was the place to be, with hundreds of people on the beach and in the lake and filling the multiple parking lots in the park.

Jason Medina and Chris Vigil were out with family and friends enjoying the day.

“Just chilling, just going to swim,” Vigil said. “Having a good time.”

With the holiday coming up, a lot more people are expected to be heading to Colorado’s bodies of water.

“Especially when there’s holidays, it’s just packed and everyone’s having a great time,” said Jaylah Epperson, who has been coming to Bear Lake State Park every summer for several years.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife said with the holiday and unexpected thunderstorms, they are asking people to take precautions and stay safe on the water.

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