09/22/2026
⚠️🌊 Low-Head Dams & Weirs: Small Drop, Big Danger
They may look harmless, but weirs and low-head dams can create extremely dangerous conditions. Water flowing over the structure can form a powerful current and a circulating “hydraulic” current below it that can trap a person, swimmer, or even a boat.
Even strong swimmers can have difficulty escaping these currents.
🚫 Stay away from the area immediately above and below weirs and low-head dams.
🚫 Never swim, wade, fish, or operate a boat near these structures unless specifically permitted and designated as safe.
🚫 Keep children and pets away from fast-moving water and dam structures.
🚫 Wear a properly fitted life jacket when boating or recreating near the water.
🚫 Obey all warning signs, buoys, barricades, and posted closures.
Remember: Calm-looking water does not always mean safe water. When water is moving over or around a dam or weir, conditions can change quickly and the danger may not be visible from the surface.
Stay back. Stay alert. Respect the water.