Signs Mark Deadly Reminder Of Kern River's Power

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- There’s a deadly reminder of the peril that awaits anyone who goes into the Kern River.

The Kern County Sheriff's Department updated the tote board at the mouth of the Kern River Canyon Wednesday afternoon.

The death toll stands at 242 since Kern County began keeping track in 1968.

There were two victims in 2007 including one man who slipped out of his life vest.

Sheriff’s officials point out that most people go to the same place along the river every year. Unfortunately, the river is never the same. "Some places have deep holes 20 to 30 feet ... terrain varies... flow changes, you never know," said Sgt. Gary Rhoades of the Kern County Sheriff's Department.

Another misconception is that a greater number of people drown from outside the Bakersfield area than those who live nearby. Sgt. Rhoades said a recent study indicated Bakersfield-related drownings in the Kern River make up about half of the river’s deaths.