205 W 5th Ave Ellensburg, WA 98926-2887
Monday - Friday 8 AM - 5 PM
Kittitas (pronounced 'KITT-i-tass') County is located in central Washington State. It spans from the lush forested Cascade Mountains to the upper Yakima River Valley plains and the Columbia River.
Kittitas County, WA - 07/31/2014 - Sheriff's Office encourages safe recreation this summer
As the weather warms we venture into the trails, waterways and campgrounds. Some things to remember that will make your summer recreation more enjoyable. Though the air temperature is warm, the water in Kittitas County is cold. Alcohol reduces response time and the body's ability to recognize and respond to hazards. Wear Life Jackets. Washington Law requires a life jacket for every person on a vessel. They must be the proper size, serviceable and accessible. Children under the age of 12 must wear their life jacket whenever your vessel is underway. Washington Law requires you to have a Boater Education Card to operate motorized vessels. Many sections of our rivers have hazards and require the proper skill and vessel to navigate, such as rowing frames or Ore Locks. Please call the Sheriff's Marine Patrol at 509-925-8534 for questions on water conditions. The Columbia River in Vantage is still closed to all recreation and is projected to remain closed until the Dam Repairs are completed this Fall. We will keep you posted. When hiking, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Dress for the weather, drink and bring plenty of water and energy food. For long treks, be prepared to spend the night if necessary. Information on trail conditions is available on the USFS and DFW Web sites. If you become injured or lost, remain calm, stay where you are. If you have cell service, call 911 and they will direct Search and Rescue to your location.
Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us
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Contact: Clayton Myers, Undersheriffclay.myers@co.kittitas.wa.us509-925-8534