Rope swings on the banks of the Frio River result in numerous injuries
Article by Michael Robinson ; Picture Credit: Robinson
(Picture is from Utopia Park near the Sabinal River)
Many people like to “Swing into Summer ” by swinging off a rope attached to a tall Cypress Tree on the banks of the Frio River. Others can be seen diving off cliffs facing the Frio River opposite the side of Garner State Park according to Garner State Park Superintendent Kelby Bridwell. According to Bridwell, these two activities result in many injuries involving broken bones as well as back, and neck injuries resulting from people diving into shallow water or hanging on to the rope too long swinging back into the Cypress Trees or falling too close to the shoreline into shallow water.
According to Bridwell, GSP personnel routinely cut rope swings on the river banks on the GSP park side of the river. However, there are two to three rope swings located on private property on the opposite side of GSP.
Bridwell said a single rope swing can be swung on up to 10,000 times a day.
He went on to say that park staff often helps in rescue efforts of people in the Frio River.
Over this past weekend, an off duty U.S. Border Patrol officer was involved in a private party incident on the Frio River on the private property side of the river. The incident is still being investigated by law enforcement and the condition of the officer is not known at this time.
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