Danger

All dams, regardless of their size, are dangerous.  Many accidents and drownings occur at “run of the river” dams where water flows over the crest of the dam and down a face.

You SHOULD NEVER attempt go over a dam in any vessel, and avoid approaching a dam from below – currents can sweep you over a dam from above or draw you into the dam face from below.  Wading below a dam, and swimming anywhere in the vicinity of a dam are also dangerous.

Run of the river dams can trap persons in the “boil” of the dam.  This recirculating current that can hold you even if you are wearing a life preserver, and can hold debris that can severely injure you. 

Click here for animation regarding the dangers of dams.

llinois Paddling Council has developed a video portraying the dangers of dams and footage of the organization's dam safety model. Check out this video here.