Stay safe on the water

Conditions can change quickly and without warning when you're swimming, fishing, or boating—especially near dams. Protect yourself with these tips from Brookfield Renewable.

Get dam information for your state*

  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusettes
  • New Hampshire
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • Pennsylvania
  • Tennessee
  • West Virginia

*For select Brookfield Renewable facilities in these states.

Water safety basics

Always wear a life jacket when on or near the water

Waterways are unpredictable and hazards are often unseen. A life jacket is your best defense against accident or injury.

Avoid swimming or immersing in cold water

Cold water cools the body much faster than air and can quickly lead to hypothermia.

Maintain a safe distance from dams

Water conditions can change rapidly upstream and downstream from dams. Keep your distance to stay safe.

Obey all signs and warnings

Pay close attention to signs and barriers near dams, including flood warnings, restricted access signs, portage signs, and other posted signs.

Know the risks before you dive in

Research recreation areas ahead of time. If there’s a dam close by, check local water levels, flow rates, and current safety warnings.

Have a plan

Decide ahead of time where you'll go and when you'll be back. Communicate this plan to a close contact and stick to it.

Powering and protecting our communities

As a leader in renewable energy, Brookfield Renewable is committed to promoting water safety in and around our hydroelectric dams. We maintain up-to-date information about our dams online so you can check local conditions before your next activity. Remember that conditions can change quickly and without notice—even water that looks calm can be dangerous.

ALWAYS WEAR A LIFE JACKET.

Water currents and conditions can be unpredictable. Stay cautious and always wear a life jacket.