Kerman, Calif. – A tragic incident unfolded on Friday afternoon at Skaggs Bridge Park in Kerman, where a man in his 20s lost his life to drowning while enjoying the hot weather with friends along the San Joaquin River.

Details of the Incident

The Fresno County sheriff’s deputies and EMS personnel rushed to the scene around 12:30 p.m. after receiving reports of a man swimming in the river who had become unconscious. According to his friends, the victim, who was not identified, lacked swimming skills, was not equipped with a life jacket, and was navigating through knee-high water when he slipped off a shelf in the riverbed, plunging into deeper waters.

Witnesses stated that the man remained submerged for approximately 2 to 3 minutes before his friends managed to reach him. Despite their efforts to administer CPR until the arrival of EMS personnel, they were unable to revive him.

Safety Measures Urged by Authorities

In light of this tragic event, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office issued a series of safety reminders to the public to prevent similar incidents:

Tips for Water Safety

1. Wear a Life Jacket: Ensure that everyone, especially children, wears a properly fitting life jacket while near bodies of water.
2. Stay Out if Inexperienced: Refrain from entering the water if you lack adequate swimming skills.
3. Supervise Children: Parents should maintain constant supervision of their children around water bodies.
4. Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol consumption and swimming do not mix. Alcohol can accelerate fatigue and impair judgment, leading to dangerous situations.
5. Be Aware of Fatigue: Hot weather can exacerbate fatigue, causing swimmers to tire more quickly than usual.
6. Respect Water Conditions: Understand that water temperatures may be colder than expected, and currents can be stronger than they appear. Hidden debris poses additional hazards.
7. Exercise Caution on Riverbeds: Be cautious of mud and sudden drop-offs in lakes and rivers, as these can lead to entrapment or drowning incidents.

Conclusion

This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of water safety measures. By adhering to these guidelines and exercising caution, individuals can mitigate the risk of accidents and enjoy recreational activities responsibly. The Local News App encourages everyone to prioritize safety when engaging in water-related activities. Stay informed and stay safe. Download The Local News App to receive timely updates and essential safety tips directly to your phone.

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