The Reno Fire Department's Water Entry Team has been busy over the past few weeks in the Truckee River.
We typically report on safety concerns in the summertime due to concerns with the speed and water levels in the river.
However, having cold air and water temperatures, people can find themselves in big trouble if they are in the water.
"It has been busy," said Jonathan Bernard, member of the RFD WET team. "It's really cold out, but surprisingly we've had four to five calls so far in the past three to four weeks."
Of the recent water rescues, the team has seen our homeless population, drunk people or people running from the cops.
Bernard says more often than not, during the winter, they are usually trying to save our homeless folks out of the water.
First responders want to remind folks to stay out of the Truckee River, unless they have the proper material or thermal protection.
"You get hypothermic really quickly and part of that is, your muscles stop working efficiently," Bernard said. "So, you can get it and even if the flows aren't very high, they're high enough to sweep you away especially if your muscles are cramping up and you can't fight the current at all."
Bernard adds that alcohol can speed up the effects of Hypothermia.
Each water rescue typically brings about 20 to 30 first responders.
They will post up where the victim was last seen, and another team will try and set up down stream where they think the person will be heading.
If you find yourself in the water, make sure to yell for help and to try and get out as soon as possible.
"The biggest thing you can do is being an advocate for your own rescue," Bernard said. "Try and swim to shore, don't wait for us to come get you because the longer you are in the water the less likely you are to survive it."
Firefighters say if you see someone in the river, ask them if they need help and if so, dial 911 immediately.
