Two people have drowned at a reservoir in Colorado’s mountains in less than two weeks, according to law enforcement.
The Eleven Mile Reservoir claimed the lives of a 67-year-old man and a 28-year-old man within nine days of each other, .
During one of the incidents, on Friday afternoon, two men fell off a shared paddleboard on the reservoir inside , Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials said in a . Wildlife officers and crews from the Hartsel Fire Protection District, South Park Ambulance District and Park County Sheriff’s Office initiated a water rescue at about 3:40 p.m. Friday.
A bystander on shore rescued one man, but the second man drowned, state wildlife officials said. The drowned man’s body was recovered from the reservoir shortly after 10:45 p.m. Friday.
“While at least one lifejacket was present, it was not worn and was recovered on shore,” Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials stated in the release. “Life jackets truly save lives, and the majority of water-related deaths occur because people do not wear them.”
The Park County Coroner will identify the man and release his cause of death at a later date, state wildlife officials said. Alcohol and weather may have been factors in the incident, officials said.
Just over a week earlier, on Aug. 6, another man drowned when his kayak flipped amid high winds on the Eleven Mile Reservoir, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends who are now facing an unimaginable loss,” . “We hope they find comfort and peace during this incredibly difficult time. … While we cannot change what has happened, we can use these tragedies as a reminder.”
To stay safe on the water, Park County officials said people should:
- Wear a life jacket. Don’t just have one on board; wear it and make sure it fits correctly.
- Stay sober. Alcohol and other substances can dramatically affect judgment, balance, reaction time and the ability to respond to an emergency while on the water.
- Keep an eye on the weather. Conditions can change quickly, and lightweight watercraft — including paddleboards and kayaks — can become difficult to control in strong winds and waves. If conditions look unsafe, don’t go out or get off the water.
- Keep an eye on one another. Never assume someone else is watching your children or your group.
- Have a way to call for help that’s protected from the water and accessible in an emergency.
“We want everyone to experience and enjoy the incredible beauty that Park County has to offer,” the statement continued. “Our reservoirs, mountains, and waterways are some of the reasons we love this place so much. Please enjoy them, but enjoy them wisely, responsibly, and safely. We want you to go home to your families at the end of the day.”
This is a developing story and may be updated.
