East Bay man dies in Russian River, 3rd drowning this month; 1st responders urge use of life jackets

UKIAH, Calif. (KGO) -- Sonoma County first responders are sending out an urgent message of safety for everyone visiting the Russian River this summer. It comes after three drownings this month alone. The most recent, an East Bay man who died over the weekend after jumping off a bridge into the water.

The Dunn Family from San Diego were heading out on a float trip down the Russian River Monday.

"So we're all being clipped together, our two little ones, making sure they're wearing lifejackets," said Anna Dunn, the mom of the family.

Anna says the mission is have fun and play it safe.

"I understand the river gets more 'currenty' around 2 p.m., so we're going to make sure we're out by then," Dunn added..

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Department says three people have drown in the Russian River during the month of July.

Flowers were left on Forestville's Hacienda Bridge for the most recent victim, a 35-year-old man from Richmond, who used a rope swing to jump into the water on Saturday and never resurfaced. His body was recovered by dive teams Sunday. He has not been identified.

"The one thing we want people to remember is while it's inviting, the river can be dangerous," said Sonoma County Fire District Division Chief, Cyndi Foreman.

RELATED: Body found after man believed to have drowned in Russian River, sheriff's office says

Those hazards include debris from winter storms which can be just below the surface.

"Regardless if you're a good swimmer, if you're going into an ocean, lake or river, you should have a personal flotation device on, in each one of these tragedies they did not," said Foreman.

Free loaner life jackets are available for day use at most Sonoma County Regional Park beaches. Gloria Jimenez was grabbing some for her little ones.

"I think it's beautiful they have these for us, sometimes we underestimate the water and the power it has," said Jimenez.

MORE: Oakland teen, SF man identified as victims in separate drownings in Russian River

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Marine Unit, posting a video on social media, promoting the buddy system.

"Whenever you go out to waterways, I'm recommending you bring someone with you and always have communication, a cell phone, airhorn anything to get the attention of anyone in case of emergency," said Marine Unit Deputy Jacky Crachiola.

This time of year, the river water looks amazing, but it's cold.

The sheriff's department adds that drugs and alcohol can impair your judgment when you're on the water, so be safe and wear your life jacket.