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Stay Out, Stay Alive

Posted at 6:08 PM, Apr 12, 2016
and last updated 2016-04-12 21:08:35-04

Kern County's canals are now flowing with lots of water, which brings up new dangers as many canals outside city limits are not fenced in.  

23ABC News covered a story less than two weeks ago where a man was riding his bike alongside a canal on South H St. and Berkshire Rd. The man nearly drowned but was hospitalized and survived. 

Kern County fire department officials advise residents to stay away from any canals, especially canals that are not fenced. Canal water is typically very cold since it originates in the mountains from snowmelt. 

If you're with a friend or loved one who finds themselves trapped in a canal, it is advised that you do not jump into save the person. Canal walls can be very slippery and steep and hard to escape on your own.  Call 9-1-1 immediately to get first responders on the scene as fast as possible.