First responders say education could prevent tragedy at Vermont swimming holes

By Lia Chien
Jun 14 2022



People cool off at the Bolton Potholes in Bolton last month. Photo by Glenn Russell/VTDigger

Vermonters relish warm summer days, and many eagerly head to local swimming holes to cool off. But some of those naturally beautiful spaces have also injured swimmers and even claimed lives.

First responders who’ve witnessed these tragedies say many could have been prevented if the public were better informed about the dangers.

Mark Klonicke and Adam Wood, both captains at the Richmond Volunteer Fire Department, identified heavy rains, high temperatures and aerated water as key factors in accidental drownings. Aerated water appears as frothy and white and makes it difficult or impossible for a person to float.

Knowledge of current weather patterns and river conditions can help first responders predict when these swimming holes are most dangerous. But that information hasn’t been effectively conveyed to swimmers, according to Klonicke and Wood.

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