2 People Rescued From Clear Creek In Jefferson County

GOLDEN, CO — Two people were rescued from Clear Creek Friday, the Golden Fire Department said. The department was called to the scene with Fairmount Fire Rescue, officials said.

The people were tubing near Billy Drew Bridge, but it's unclear where they initially fell off the tubes. One of the people was rescued by MillerCoors staff.

Both people were taken to the hospital in fair condition.

"The creek is dangerous and if you plan to be in the creek please wear all protection such as [a] helmet and a personal flotation [device]," GFD said on Twitter.

Runoff from this winter's heavy snowfall in the high country has led to dangerous rivers and creeks across the state. In a typical year, the water flow in Clear Creek will rise upwards of 1500 cubic feet per second during runoff season, the city said. In the off-season, flows are between 50 to 200 cfs. This year, there are estimates that the runoff levels could reach over 3000 cfs.

The levels will depend on weather in the high country and how fast the snow melts.

The faster the flow, the more dangerous the water. Dirt and debris fill the water, which make it much more hazardous, the city warned.

The water temperature during the snow melt season is very cold and can cause hypothermia. The most common causes of drowning in moving water are hypothermia and blunt force trauma from getting hit by debris and rocks, city officials said.

The Golden Fire Department recommends that people always wear proper safety gear when getting into the water. At the very least — they should have a life vest, helmet and shoes, even if they are just planning to float down in a tube. The department also recommends thermal protective clothing and gloves.

"Keep children away from the river’s edge, as one slip could put them out of reach in an instant," the city said in a news release. "Similar with pets, do not let them swim in the open water. Golden also enforces leash laws, so your pets should never have an opportunity to get far away from you."

If your pet does get caught in the water, call 911 immediately but do not go in after your pet. They have a much stronger instinct and chance for survival than humans, the city said.

Clear Creek is a natural waterway that cannot be shut off or diverted, city officials said.

"It is powerful and relentless, but predictable. With the proper training and safety equipment, the creek can be enjoyed in a safer manner."

Three people died in separate incidents on Colorado waterways last week. Two women died in the Gunnison River on Friday, and one woman died in a rafting accident on the San Juan River.