Recreational water activities on Clear Creek in Jefferson, including Golden, are temporarily being limited for safety concerns because of high and fast waterflows.
Activities prohibited by order include all single-chambered, air-inflated devices such as belly boats, inner tubes and single-chambered rafts, as well as “body-surfers” and swimming, according to a Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office news release. The temporary order by the sheriff’s office went into effect Thursday.
Kayaks, whitewater canoes and multi-chambered professionally guided rafts, river boards, and stand-up paddleboards are exempt but users are encouraged to observe extreme caution because of swift water and floating debris, the release said. All exempted recreationists must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and a water-use helmet.
Golden’s Vanover Park is included in the order, which will be lifted when water levels and flows subside. Violators face a $100 fine and the restriction will be “strictly enforced,” the sheriff’s office said. Water restrictions will remain in effect until water levels subside.
