Oklahoma lake and river safety tips from GRDA

As lake and river traffic increases during the summer season, the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) Police Department is urging everyone to stay safe while enjoying Oklahoma’s waterways.

Recent heavy rainfall has raised water levels at Grand and Hudson lakes, which are expected to remain above normal during the Fourth of July holiday. Despite the elevated conditions, GRDA officials say large crowds are still anticipated.

LAKE LEVELS

“There is plenty of room for everyone to visit the beautiful waters we have here in Northeast Oklahoma,” said GRDA Corporate Spokesperson Justin Alberty. “We just encourage them to play safe, watch out for others, and use common sense while boating and floating.”

Boating and river safety tips from GRDA

Whether you're spending the weekend on the lake or floating the Illinois River, GRDA offers the following tips for a safe outing:

1. Always wear a life jacket.
2. Check the weather before heading out to avoid sudden storms.
3. Know your vessel. Understand its load limits and handling.
4. Let float operators know if anyone in your group is a first-time floater.
5. Create a float plan and share it with someone on land.
6. Avoid alcohol while boating. Most lake accidents are alcohol-related.
7. Don’t dive from bridges, bluffs, or trees.
8. Never float or swim alone. Stay within sight of your group.

What to know about high water levels on Oklahoma lakes

Due to elevated lake levels, GRDA is encouraging boaters to be extra cautious and aware of changing conditions:

1. Watch for floating debris. High water can bring logs and other hazards.
2. Mind your wake. Wakes can damage properties that are normally above waterline.
3. Look out for submerged objects. Shoreline features like picnic tables or retaining walls may now be underwater.
4. Stay away from floodgates. Spillways may be open at Pensacola Dam and Robert S. Kerr Dam—always observe safety buoys.
5. Avoid areas below spillways. Swift water discharge is dangerous and entering is illegal.

GRDA lake rules every boater should know

GRDA Police also reminds boaters of the following operational rules and restrictions:

1. Stay at least 200 feet from any GRDA dam, or 500 feet during power generation.
2. Vessels traveling faster than 10 mph must remain 50 feet from other boats (unless in sanctioned events).
3. Nighttime speed limit is 25 mph on all GRDA lakes.
4. Wake jumping is not allowed in coves, creeks, or hollows.
5. Skiing and jet skiing are allowed only during daylight hours and are restricted in certain upstream areas.
6. Boats towing skiers must have either an observer age 8 or older or a rear-view mirror installed.

How to contact GRDA Police or get help on the water

For more information about the GRDA Police Department or how an officer can assist you, call 918-256-0911 or visit grda.com.

If you need help while on the water, call 911.

Whether your July 4 plans include a trip to Lake Hudson, Grand Lake or the Scenic Illinois River, the Grand River Dam Authority Police Department is reminding you to boat and float safe, smart, and sober.

Other water safety coverage:

Staying Safe On Oklahoma's Waters: Swimming, Boating, & Water Safety

Water Safety: Tips for staying safe on the water and how to prevent drownings