Stay Safe at Great Falls Park: Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Shares Tips

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue is advising the community on how to stay safe when visiting Great Falls Park, particularly the Potomac River Gorge, an area where visitors are often prone to injury.

Earlier this summer, U.S. Park Police on both the Maryland and Virginia sides of the Potomac had to put a stop to amateur zip-liners using improper equipment to travel over top of the river after dark. Fairfax County Fire and Rescue says 72 percent of injuries suffered by river visitors occur from shoreline activities.

Take a look at the county’s full advisory, especially if you’re planning a visit to Great Falls Park sometime this summer:

Every year many recreational visitors injure themselves in the Great Falls Park, especially the Potomac River Gorge area. More than half, 51 percent, of all river-related injuries occur in the 14-mile stretch and end in death.

Additionally, 72 percent of river-related incidents are shoreline-based activities, not kayaking or canoeing. Recent statistics show if you are doing something from the shore of the river without proper gear and fall into a situation where injury is likely, there is a high chance of drowning or serious injury.

Swimming, wading, and entering the river is strictly prohibited year-round.

Rock climbing can be extremely dangerous and should be attempted by experienced climbers with proper equipment. (Register at the visitor center or lower parking lot before climbing).

Use extreme caution and keep a safe distance from cliff edges.

Be careful while hiking or exploring near the river and in rocky areas.

Boating is for experienced boaters only. (Boaters must enter the river below the falls at Fisherman’s Eddy or farther downstream).

Wear a lifejacket in or near the river, including those that fish.

Be alert for natural hazards such as poison ivy, stinging insects, spiders, and ticks. The only venomous snake, the copperhead, is found in the park.

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue also released a public service announcement about river safety. Check it out below:

For more information and safety tips, visit the U.S. National Park Service online.