A tragic incident occurred on Friday afternoon in Kerman, California, when a man in his 20s drowned while spending time with friends at the San Joaquin River. Fresno County sheriff’s deputies and EMS personnel were called to Skaggs Bridge Park around 12:30 p.m. after receiving a report of an unconscious swimmer.

Incident Details

According to reports, the young man, who did not know how to swim, was wading in knee-high water without a life jacket. While attempting to enjoy the cool river waters, he stepped off an underwater shelf into deeper water, quickly finding himself in danger. His friends witnessed the incident and stated that he was submerged for approximately two to three minutes before they could reach him and pull him out.

Emergency Response

Upon arrival, the sheriff’s deputies and EMS personnel took over the situation. Despite the friends’ efforts to perform CPR, the man could not be revived. This unfortunate event highlights the importance of water safety, especially for those who are inexperienced swimmers.

Water Safety Recommendations

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of safety in and around water bodies. They provided several critical safety measures to prevent such tragic accidents:

• Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitting life jacket when near or in the water, especially for children.
• Know Your Limits: Avoid swimming if you are not an experienced swimmer.
• Supervision: Parents should constantly monitor their children around water.
• Avoid Alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol while swimming, as it increases fatigue and impairs judgment.
• Respect the Water: Understand that water temperatures remain cold, currents can be stronger than they appear, and debris may pose hidden dangers.
• Be Cautious of the Bottom: River and lake bottoms can have sudden drop-offs and muddy areas that can trap feet. Use your feet to feel for changes in depth.

Importance of Water Safety Awareness

This incident at Skaggs Bridge Park serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that water can pose, particularly to those who are not strong swimmers. By following recommended safety guidelines and respecting the power and unpredictability of natural water bodies, such tragedies can be avoided.

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