Coloradans and out-of-state visitors play an integral role in keeping our state parks clean, living in harmony with wildlife, and making the outdoors safer to explore.
Below are a few safety tips on how to have fun and be safe this holiday weekend.
Know Before You Go
Colorado weather is unpredictable, and conditions change constantly. Choose your destination based on the weather forecast and your activity based on your skill level and safety gear.
Find a Colorado state park map and see what activities are available at each state park using the Park Finder Tool.
Discover park events and classes on the CPW Events Calendar.
Pack it in, pack it out. Whatever you bring into the outdoors, take it out with you. Bring plastic grocery bags to carry trash when trash cans are not available or full.
Stay hydrated. Bring more water than you think you (and your pet) will need.
Wear sunscreen. Use the free sunscreen stations at select state parks to protect yourself from the sun’s damaging rays.
Boating and River Safety
Life jackets save lives. This year, the majority of water-related deaths occurred because people did not wear a life jacket.
There have already been over 20 water-related fatalities in Colorado this year, and the outdoor summer season is just beginning. In 2023, CPW tracked 32 water-related fatalities, down from 42 in 2022, a state record. CPW tracked 22 deaths in 2021 and 34 deaths in 2020.
CPW officers are actively writing tickets for boaters and paddlers who are not wearing a life jacket. Tickets cost over $100.
Wear a life jacket. Paddleboards and kayaks are considered vessels, and life jacket requirements apply.
Dress accordingly and protect yourself from the dangers of cold water shock. Regardless of your age or experience level, cold water can quickly create a drowning emergency.
Heavy rain or snow melting in nearby mountains can raise water levels quickly and without notice. Check river flows at https://dwr.state.co.us/Tools/Stations.
Only boat or paddle in conditions in which you are comfortable and confident paddling.
Boat and raft with a buddy and avoid floating alone, especially during high flows.
For recreationists who want to go rafting but need help navigating the challenging water conditions, CPW recommends hiring a Colorado-licensed river outfitter.
Be Careful with Fire
Although parts of Colorado have received high moisture levels this year, drought conditions still impact whether campfires are allowed or restricted this summer.
Download the free Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) mobile app for active fire alerts, including wildfires and prescribed burns in covered areas.
Check fire restrictions or bans at www.coemergency.com.
Use designated campfire areas when allowed and available.
Drown fires out with water until you can touch the embers.
Never leave a campfire unattended.