This post was originally shared by @explorebrevardnc – but we loved it so we wanted to share it with you. Waterfalls are part of the identity of Brevard and Transylvania County. There are more than 250 cascades scattered throughout the county, earning us the nickname “Land of Waterfalls.”
While we encourage visitors and residents alike to enjoy these natural wonders, we also want to remind everyone to Be Waterfall Wise when you are in their proximity. Every year, people are seriously injured and even die around waterfalls.
Over the past several years, the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority has worked closely with our forest and park managers and a variety of public safety organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of waterfalls by creating a campaign to promote safe practices around waterfalls. As a result, the number of injuries and fatalities has been dramatically reduced. But accidents still happen, and we’re committed to sharing our safety messaging to keep you and your loved ones safe.
OBSERVE all posted signs leading to waterfall areas.
DO NOT swim or wade upstream near a waterfall.
STAY on marked trails and observation areas.
WATCH for slick rocks around waterfalls.
DO NOT jump off waterfalls or dive into pools.
WATCH your children and pets at all times.
DO NOT climb on rocks above waist height.
We are fortunate that when a waterfall-related incident does happen we have such thoughtful, well-trained and dedicated fire and rescue personnel in Transylvania County. These brave individuals frequently face near-impossible challenges to protect visitors to our forest, step in at times of crisis and save lives. We owe them a debt of gratitude and hope you will join us in thanking them for the extraordinary service.
