Above / Local officials advise the public never to walk into flooded areas such as this large puddle that grew to 3-feet deep on the grassy area at the base of Rotary Hill along the Riverwalk. Respect the power of water. (PN Photo May 1, 2017)
“In a flooding situation such as this, going into the water can be a matter of life or death. We encourage all people to stay away from all bodies of water until they are back to normal. What can look like a fun and exciting adventure is truly a life threatening matter.”
—Naperville Fire Chief Mark Puknaitis
Response to water rescue incidents on the DuPage River, June 18, 2015
UPDATE, May 2, 2017 / Fox News and ABC7 News reported from vantage points along the Riverwalk today.
It appeared that Canada geese, one by one, dropped down on the covered bridge right on cue during one of the Fox News’ live reports.
PHOTO GALLERY / Click any photo to enlarge.
[shareprints gallery_id=”73075″ gallery_type=”squares” gallery_position=”pos_center” gallery_width=”width_100″ image_size=”small” image_padding=”0″ theme=”dark” image_hover=”false” lightbox_type=”slide” titles=”true” captions=”true” descriptions=”true” comments=”true” sharing=”true”]When we asked permission to take a few photos, the newscaster said she’d been informed by a Riverwalk stroller about not feeding ducks. The imprint along the lower walkway with the message “Do not feed wildlife” currently is covered by the “swollen” DuPage River. The sign on the east side of the bridge, still showing above the high water reads, “Do not feed geese, ducks and other wildlife. It creates health problems for the animals and may cause aggressive behavior toward people. Feeding ducks and geese is harmful.”
Thanks to everyone for moving right along with the knowledge that ducks and geese will be healthier when allowed to find food naturally, even in high water. Let wildlife be wild.
Above / Note the rapid movement in this still photo of the DuPage River after excessive rainfall has flooded the banks in downtown Naperville. Local officials advise taking precautions until water levels are back to normal. (PN Photo May 1, 2017)
Water Safety Reminders for Residents
The City of Naperville wants to remind residents to take safety precautions during excessive rainfall.
During times like this, it is essential to keep a few important safety tips in mind:
- Stay out of all flood waters, rivers, and retention ponds; trying to navigate the fast moving, debrisfilled flood waters can lead to risky rescue situations or tragic circumstances.
- Avoid skin contact with the flood water because it can be contaminated.
- Move to high ground if you find yourself in an area where water is flooding.
- Do not attempt to drive on a flooded road, even if it appears to be shallow.
- Do not park near a stream, river or place that could easily flood.
- The best thing you can do is avoid flooded areas and pay attention to flood watches and warnings.
- Be sure curbside and backyard storm water drains are clear of leaves and brush.
If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Talk to the youngsters in your life about water safety.
