July 20, 2016 - The Mariposa County Sheriff Department has issued a Public Service Announcement (PSA) for the Merced River area of Mariposa County.

Our office has responded to multiple calls for service in the Merced River area this summer. As a result of those calls, we felt the need to give a few pointers on how to stay safe while utilizing the beautiful Merced River. Summers at the river should be spent lounging on the beach and enjoying the sounds of the flowing water.

Here are a few things to help make your trip the Merced River one to remember:

1. If you can’t swim – Do not go in the water, or if you feel the need to cool yourself in the river please wear a life jacket.

2. If you can swim- Remember the water might look calm and lazy but it is still cold and can have a very swift undercurrent.

3. Lock your vehicles – Even if you can see your vehicle, if you are soaking in the river and someone pulls up to see what cool stuff you have stored in your vehicle it won’t be easy to stop them. Keep all your valuables out of sight.

4. We have to share – The Merced River is an amazing area for families all over California to visit. Many valley area families along with locals use the river for swimming, BBQ’s, weddings, reunions and even baptisms. Sometimes the river area beaches can be crowded and buzzing with activity. We have to be patient, stay vigilant; and watch our kids, our friends and even our families.

5. Don’t get drunk – Outside of the fact that being intoxicated at the river constitutes a PC 647(F) - Public Intoxication, it also can lead to bad decisions around; swift moving water, friends and sometimes even family. Please drink responsibly.

6. Wild and Scenic – The Merced River is a wild and scenic river, we want to continue to keep that area beautiful, please remember to; take your trash with you when you leave and please do not spray paint the bathrooms, rocks or anything else that looks like a great canvas for graffiti.

7. Wear Sunscreen- Protect your skin, don’t forget to spray on that SPF 50.

Due to the large amount of people sharing the river, our office has increased our patrol presence in the area.

If you have an emergency while in the river canyon area please dial 911.

If you have trouble finding cell service please note there is an emergency phone at the Ferguson slide stoplights and the BLM Information Center at the bottom of Briceburg is open Friday 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Source: Mariposa County Sheriff Department