Signal Akron news partner WKYC Studios contributed to the reporting in this article.
Saturday’s death of a 5-year-old in the Cuyahoga River — as crews continue to search for his missing father — is a grim reminder of the dangers posed by natural environments despite the allure of the water on a hot day.
Search and rescue began in Cuyahoga Falls shortly before 7 p.m. Saturday following reports that Patrick Cross and his son, Braxton, “had gone under the water” near the Sheraton Suites hotel while on an inflatable inner tube.
Additionally, the Kent Fire Department on Sunday rescued 51 people and eight dogs from the river as fast-moving water created hazardous conditions for rafters and kayakers. This was despite signs posted throughout the parks to remind people of the dangerous conditions.
Kent fire officials said many people on the river were not wearing life jackets. And they urged the public to stay on shore until conditions improve.
“While today’s response ended safely for all those on the water, it serves as a reminder of how powerful and unpredictable the river can be. With recent storms this past week the water is both high and the current fast,” according to a press release posted on the City of Kent Fire Department’s Facebook page.
The following is a collection of water safety information and resources, including for canoeing and boating, on the Cuyahoga River and other bodies of water.
Follow simple rules:
1. Remember that swimming in natural water environments is more challenging than home pools.
Be sure you are water-competent for natural environments before you go swimming or floating — natural bodies of water require more knowledge and skill.
Whenever you are near a lake, river, stream or other natural water environment, watch and prepare for currents, waves and underwater obstructions — they’re not just found in oceans.
2. Wear a life jacket.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary says 83% of boat drowning victims did not wear life jackets. And Ohio law requires that children younger than 10 wear a properly sized life jacket on boats less than 18 feet long.
3. Swim, boat and canoe sober.
15% of boating-related deaths involve alcohol.
4. Never boat or swim alone.
5. Employ layers of protection — called Circle of Drowning Prevention — by the American Red Cross, including barriers to prevent access to water, life jackets and close supervision of children.
6. Be aware of hazards and the weather.
Watch out for changing weather such as thunderstorms and lightning. If they occur, leave the water immediately.
7. Ensure every member of your family learns how to swim.
The City of Akron does not currently offer swimming, canoeing or kayaking classes, but a city spokesperson said they are hoping to offer swim classes again in the fall.
The Akron Area YMCA also offers swimming classes that include water safety information for all ages. Find available classes here.
8. Know what to do in a water emergency, including how to safely help someone in trouble in the water, call for emergency help and give CPR.
9. In outdoor bodies of water, be aware of fast-moving currents, waves and rapids even in shallow water. Watch for river hazards and be alert for river characteristics that could cause harm to boats or passengers.
Additional safety gear to bring
- Carry personal identification and medical condition information
- Pack water and a first-aid kit
- Bring extra paddles for canoes and kayaks
- Include a safety whistle for emergencies
More rules to follow to ensure boating safety:
File a “float plan” with a reliable person indicating where you are going and when you will leave and return. Remember to contact the person once you return safely.
Dive only in water clearly marked as safe for diving — at least 9 feet deep with no underwater obstacles.
Do not enter the water from a height, such as a bridge or boat.
Prepare yourself and your gear for getting wet.
Dress properly and bring an extra change of clothing in a waterproof bag — pack your cell phone in this bag.
Wetsuits or drysuits should be worn when water and air temperatures combined equal less than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Regardless of the environment, cold water can kill. Dress in layers of clothing that will trap body heat even when wet. Polypropylene or wool are good materials for such conditions. Avoid 100% cotton fabrics.
Neoprene shoes or tennis shoes with woolen socks are recommended footwear.
Resources to learn more:
Paddle TV offers free explainer videos for all kayakers and canoers on its YouTube channel, including River Hazards and Safety on the Water While Canoeing.
Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Paddling safetyPaddling Hazards on Rivers & Streams — learn about floods and swiftwater, the hazards associated with lowhead dams and waterfalls, strainers, hypothermia and foot entrapments.
American Canoe Association
Paddling 101
Smart start for safe paddling
American Red Cross
How to swim safely in rivers and other natural environments
Paddle the River
Proper river safety when kayaking
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
How to ensure a safe boating season
National Safe Boating Council
Boat on course free safety videos
2025 boating safety calendar
