MESA, AZ (CBS5) -
Tubing on the Salt River is definitely a tradition here in the Valley. So what's being done to ensure your safety on the river this Fourth of July?
For starters, a Maricopa County sheriff sub-station is directly across the parking lot. For July 4, they will have extra officers on duty near the river and will be directing traffic.
You may have heard that the river was closed for part of Memorial Day weekend. The reason for that, believe it or not, was a lack of parking.
"You cannot park on the side of the road in Tonto National Forest because it's unsafe. So when parking is not available, we have to close the river down," said Lynda Breault of Salt River Tubing.
So to avoid that, arrive early. Salt River Tubing opens at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday morning.
What if Mother Nature throws a thunderstorm in the middle of your adventure?
"If you're on the river, we try to get you off the river as soon as possible at river exit points," Breault said.
At the end of the day, forest officials want you to have a great time, but they also want you to respect the river and the forest.
You're also reminded to drink a lot of water, assign a designated driver and of course, wear your life vest. Also be advised that glass containers are prohibited.
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