TROUTDALE, Ore. — The Portland metro area is gearing up for a hot Fourth of July weekend. The AMR River Rescue Team said warmer weather means higher water levels, unexpected debris and fast currents.
But while the temperatures are hot, the water can still be very cold.
"Cold temperatures can be really dangerous," said Nicholas Ball, a lead river rescue technician at AMR. "They can send you into cold shock and affect your motor function, especially at midday when the water hasn't reached its warmest. The difference in air and water temperature can be a big shock to the body and we want to make sure people are aware of that."
To keep people safe, the AMR River Rescue Team will be at Glenn Otto Park and High Rocks Park this holiday weekend and throughout the summer.
But no matter which waterway you choose, they urge people to remember to stay hydrated.
RELATED: Portland could see 4 days of 100-degree weather spanning Fourth of July weekend, start of next week
"The weather is going to be hot," Ball said. "Monitor your alcohol intake. Water and alcohol do not mix well. Even the best swimmers can be affected by that. Know your limits. Don't underestimate the river and overestimate your abilities."
"We're okay swimmers," said Sonya Sasmal while enjoying herself with friends at Glenn Otto Park. "I think I'm an average swimmer with a healthy respect for fast water," shared her friend Andrews Costa.
"If you don't know how to swim, just stay out of the water," Kyle Carpenter warned while spending the day with his girlfriend in Troutdale. "At least just dip your toes in."
The AMR River Rescue Team will also have life jackets you can rent free of charge and recommends that anyone who plans to go into the water use one, especially for little ones.
"Not just letting your kids go too far out," said Daniel Zebedeo while spending the holiday with his two small children. "Especially our two-year-old — he likes to just throw rocks. He'll throw rocks for hours, but you've got to keep an eye on them."
The AMR River Rescue Team will be at Glenn Otto Park seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and at High Rocks Park from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.