DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. — Fort Payne Fire Chief Ron Saferite says there been about two drownings and eight rescues since May 3rd. He advises people, especially out-of-towners, to stay safe over the summer.
Saferite believes there's been a rise in drownings and rescues because now that people are allowed out, the park has a better chance at social distancing.
"Out in nature I guess, is the less chance of worrying about it, but when the water is up in Little River is not the time to go swimming in it. It's a beautiful place to go look and see," says Saferite.
Saferite says it's dangerous when there's bad weather. "Heavy rains, especially heavy rains that we have had recently is not the time to get into the water."
Officials have posted on site the water flow. Anything more than 500 cubic feet per second is dangerous.
Saferite says rescues takes the effort from several first responders.
"We've learned how to mesh, and we know who does what's best. We pretty much can handle with those organizations."
Saferite says right under the falls is where agencies recover most of the drowning victims. He also says that's the most dangerous part to get into.
"It's very important for people that's coming to Little River Canyon to know what they're getting into when they get there. Stay on the walkways. Look at the water from a distance. If it's flowing high. And that's when it's pretty, is when it's flowing. It looks like a lot of fun to get in it. But you can drown in it if you're not careful," says Saferite.
Saferite says it's dangerous at any point to get in the water, but it's especially dangerous when the water is over 500 cubic feet per second.