The Sheriff’s Office is reminding everyone that water safety should be of paramount importance this weekend.

Most drowning deaths in King County occur in April, May, and July – 56 percent, or nine out of 16 in 2009.

With the first really good weather forecast of the season, people are expected to take to the area’s lakes and rivers.

“While the weather will be great, the rivers and lakes of King County are still very cold. And the rivers are fast-moving, and extremely dangerous”, said Sheriff Sue Rahr.

Furthermore, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began releasing water from the Howard Hanson Dam on Wednesday evening, May 12. Flows on the Green River in south King County will be high through at least Saturday night, meaning the river will be even more dangerous than usual, especially for unprepared or inexperienced users.

Fast-moving river waters can pull unsuspecting users under tress and logjams left over from the winter, and drowning results.

Officials say the rivers and lakes are still very cold from snow melt-off, so hypothermia is a problem. It affects everyone, no matter the age, size or experience. It will take away a persons ability to swim or tread water. Swimmers should wear thermal protection.

Also, lifeguards have not been assigned to designated swimming areas yet.

The Sheriff’s Office advises people to wear a Coast Guard approved lifejacket while boating, or even if floating on an inner tube. All children under 12 years old must wear a life jacket while on any boat less than 19 feet. All boats must have a lifejacket for everyone on board.

“We want King County residents to have a great time outdoors this summer”, said Sheriff Rahr. “But use common sense and stay safe.”