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Eau Claire, Wis.: Xcel Energy observes dam safety awareness week

EAU CLAIRE - The current high flows on Wisconsin rivers from this spring’s snowmelt as the fishing season begins is a good reminder of the powerful forces of nature and how important it is to stay safe when boating, canoeing, kayaking or seeking other recreational activities on rivers.

Also, a number of rivers in northwestern Wisconsin continue to remain at high levels preventing Xcel Energy crews from installing boat barriers near some dams. These boat barriers are normally in place at the start of Wisconsin’s fishing opener, which is Saturday, May 4. This includes Xcel Energy dams on the Montreal, Red Cedar, St. Croix and Lower Chippewa rivers.

That is why Xcel Energy joins the Midwest Hydro Users Group in observing Dam Safety Awareness Week April 28 - May 4 to promote public safety awareness near dams and prevent accidents throughout the boating season.

Xcel Energy operates 19 hydroelectric facilities on eight rivers in Wisconsin. Xcel Energy’s hydroelectric operations account for 20 percent of the electricity used by its customers in Wisconsin and Michigan.

The purpose of Dam Safety Awareness Week is to heighten the safety awareness of recreational and fishing enthusiasts as they return to the waterways. Many of the accidents and fatalities that occur near dams could be prevented by using common sense, staying clear of dams and understanding their dangers.

Xcel Energy and the Midwest Hydro Users Group offer the following tips for personal safety near dams:

• Obey all warning signs, barriers and flashing lights, horns and sirens.
• Wear a personal flotation device (PFD), a life jacket.
• Leave your boat motor running to provide maneuvering power.
• Stay clear of spillways. Changing currents and “boiling” waves can make boat control difficult near dams.
• Reverse currents occur below dams, they can pull a boat back toward the dam into the spillway and capsize it.
• Never anchor boats below a dam because water levels can change rapidly.

Xcel Energy and the Midwest Hydro Users Group members want fishermen, boaters, outdoor enthusiasts and visitors to enjoy the many exceptional recreation resources to be found on rivers and around dams in the region.