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(253) 272-5226There’s no better way to cool down in Western Washington than by enjoying our natural waterways. It’s easy to assume that the only real dangers are for those venturing out on boats. But it’s important to exercise caution with any water activity, including swimming, paddleboarding, cold plunging, or even walking near slippery docks.
Here are a few tips to help you enjoy a fun and safe summer around the water.
Here in the Puget Sound, there’s no shortage of water access, from beaches to lakes and rivers. Before you head out to explore, it’s worth being aware of a few hazards that may be specific to our region.
Many people love to visit beaches during low tide. These events can be exciting opportunities to explore tidepools or walk along newly exposed sand. However, tides can return quickly and create dangerous situations. In 2023, a man drowned at Dalco Passage near Point Defiance Park after the tide came in, leaving him trapped along a cliffside. Always check NOAA’s Tides and Currents chart before heading out, and allow plenty of time to return safely.
Titlow Beach has been the site of recent concern due to a dangerous whirlpool area near a culvert. Tragically, a man was pulled into this whirlpool and swept through the culvert into the lagoon, where he died. His family has filed a lawsuit, calling for improved signage to warn others of the hazard. At the time of writing, it’s unclear whether new signs have been posted. Please use extreme caution in this area and avoid entering unfamiliar or fast-moving water.
The waters of Puget Sound may appear calm, but strong tidal currents can make paddleboarding or kayaking risky. Some local paddleboarders have shared experiences of being swept out quickly from Owen Beach and struggling to return. To prepare, check NOAA’s Current Predictions page before your outing. A good rule of thumb is to start your trip heading into the current while you have more energy. That way, the return trip is easier.
Washington’s freshwater lakes occasionally experience toxic algae blooms. Exposure to these waters can pose serious health risks to people and pets. Before visiting a lake or beach, check for any posted warnings or advisories through Washington’s toxic algae tracker. And of course, never ignore closure signs or advisories.
Now that we’ve discussed regional risks, here are some general safety guidelines to follow near any water:
Most of these tips are common sense, but they serve as important reminders. Especially when you’re planning a trip somewhere new or may be unfamiliar with the risks.
We each have a personal responsibility to stay safe and follow posted guidelines. But what happens if you do everything right and still get hurt?
In some cases, a city or park district may share legal responsibility. For example, if a dock is poorly maintained or a known hazard lacks signage, there may be grounds to file a claim. The Titlow culvert incident is one example currently under legal scrutiny.
It’s worth noting that suing a government agency can be complicated. Special rules apply, and strict deadlines must be met. If you believe a government entity’s negligence contributed to your injury, speak with an attorney right away.
In the event you or a loved one is hurt in or around the water in Puget Sound, here are a few immediate steps you can take:
The team at Ladenburg Law has experience handling claims against government agencies. These cases are more complex than typical injury claims, and time is a critical factor.
If you’ve been hurt due to a safety hazard at a public park or waterfront, contact us to find out your options. We never charge for an initial consultation, and we only collect a fee if we’re able to win you compensation. Call us at (253) 272-5226 or fill out the short form on our contact page.