With the higher amount of snow runoff than in previous years, it brings intensity to the Kern River that has not been seen in years.
As a result, Kern County Fire Department has already had multiple river rescues so far this year.
"If you don't know the river, don't know what you're floating down, you can't see...it's not smart at all," said John Stallone, the owner of Kern Mountain River and Adventures, a successful Kernville rafting and outdoor company.
KCFD also confirms the majority of people from outside Kern River Valley, and who are unfamiliar with the rapids are the ones who often find themselves in danger.
"So far we have had several rescues and often times, it's people who don't know where they're at, so it's a trouble for us to locate the patient. But once they do, these rescues can be very technical. So sometimes we're able to send in our normal firefighters and water rescue equipment, other times we have to call upon our helicopter to do a hoist rescue," said Captain Tyler Townsend with Kern County Fire Department.
In addition, the future of the signs located at the mouth of the canyon that read the amount of casualties in Kern River since 1968 remains uncertain.
Some residents say those signs should come down, because victims aren't getting the message.
KCFD emphasizes the importance of wearing a US Coast Guard approved life jacket, not swimming at night (or at all), and if rafting or enjoying other water activities, to go with a reputable company.
