MARSHALLS CREEK -- The Delaware River has been running about two feet higher than usual for this time of year and officials say those swift river currents led to two river rescues on Tuesday near the New York /Pennsylvania line.
The Delaware River near Marshalls Creek appears calm, but upriver, swift currents caused crews to rush to the rescue. They had to help out bridge inspectors who had their railroad crane overturn.
A group of canoers from upstate New York also needed help.
Folks at Adventure Sports in Marshalls Creek say those same swift currents can be found down river.
"It happens every time the water goes up, no matter where you are at. Again, it provides issues getting on and off the river primarily," said general manager Sean Fox.
Right now the Delaware River in our area is running at about seven and a half feet, which is about two feet higher than usual for this time of year.
The water is rather murky from all the rain, making visibility tough.
Livery services are warning customers these conditions can be dangerous.
"We try to read them a riot act so to speak, pretty severe as far as what they might be facing, trying to make that point because if you've never experienced the river there's no way to know what you're looking at," said Fox.
These river experts advise that you stick to the middle of the river, away from obstacles, or wait for better conditions.
At the Delaware's current water levels, life jackets are not required, but officials say they highly recommend you wear one.
Just a little farther down the Delaware, the Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort has been watching the high water, too.
"This happens to be a little calmer section of the Delaware River, basically where we put in at Smithfield and where we take out a lot of our guests here at Shawnee," said Rob Howell at Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort
Guest safety is a number one priority and canoers are urged stay close to the New Jersey shoreline for a smoother ride in this section of the Delaware. The resort also has one main requirement.
"We require that everyone wears a life jacket. We give everyone a life jacket, again for safety's sake and respect for the Delaware."
As we spoke to officials throughout the day they said that common sense can go a long way and also knowing your limitations can help avoid any dangerous situations.
