Man who drowned in Lake Pueblo died while trying to help kids in rough water, according to CPW

PUEBLO, Colo. (KOAA) — On Thursday, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) released more information about the man who drowned in Lake Pueblo on Wednesday.

According to CPW, the 53-year-old went out into the water to help kids who were swimming in rough waters.

There were four children, two of whom were the man's children, and two were friends. The kids are safe.

Other people in the area saw him go under and went to pull him out.

Lake Pueblo State Park Rangers received calls for help around 2:45 p.m. and arrived on the scene just a few minutes later. CPW says that "witnesses, park staff and medical personnel" all tried CPR for 40 minutes but were unsuccessful.

According to CPW, he wasn't wearing a life jacket, and the water temperature was cold with heavy winds.

The Pueblo County Coroner has not identified the man or the official cause of death, but News5 will release that information once it becomes available.

CPW has provided the following reminders about being in the water this summer:

• Wear a life jacket.
  
  • A life jacket will keep your airway clear of water and your head above water and support your body should you stop swimming or become unconscious.
• Paddleboards and kayaks are considered vessels, and life jacket requirements apply. 
• Be aware of the dangers of cold water shock.
  
  • Water below 68 degrees Fahrenheit is dangerous. Sudden immersion in cold water can cause gasping, inhalation of water, and hypothermia, resulting in unconsciousness or swimming failure as muscles become numb.
• Heavy rain or snow melting in nearby mountains can raise water levels quickly and without notice.
  
  • Check river flows here.
    

____

Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.