What Happens If You Jump In The Chicago River

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Don't Jump In the Chicago River: A Survival Guide (Sort Of)

So, you’re thinking of taking a dip in the Chicago River, huh? Well, let's just say the Windy City has a lot to offer, but swimming in its river isn’t one of them. Trust me, I’ve seen enough episodes of Chicago Fire to know this is a bad idea.

What Happens If You Jump In The Chicago River
What Happens If You Jump In The Chicago River

The River: A Not-So-Inviting Pool

Imagine the Chicago River as a giant, murky bathtub filled with who-knows-what. Sure, it's gotten cleaner over the years, but let's not get too excited. It’s still not exactly a crystal-clear oasis. Plus, there's the small matter of the river's current, which can be as unpredictable as Chicago weather. You might end up doing the backstroke faster than you can say “deep dish pizza.

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What Lurks Below?

We’ve all heard the urban legends about what lives in the depths of rivers. Well, while I can’t confirm the existence of any giant catfish or mutated turtles, I can tell you that the Chicago River is home to a variety of less-than-desirable creatures. And trust me, you don’t want to make a new friend down there.

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Hypothermia: Your Body’s Not a Polar Bear

Even on the hottest summer day, the Chicago River is cold. Like, really cold. Jump in, and you’ll be trading your swim trunks for a goosebump-covered suit in record time. Hypothermia is no joke, people.

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The Law: Not Your Friend

Let's talk about the legal side of things. Jumping in the Chicago River is probably not the smartest move you could make. You might find yourself on the wrong side of the law, and nobody wants a run-in with the CPD.

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So, What Should You Do Instead?

If you’re looking to cool off, try a splash pad, the beach, or even a nice cold shower. Or, you could always just admire the river from a safe distance. It's a beautiful waterway, really, when viewed from the shore.

How To... Avoid a Chicago River Swim

  • How to resist the urge to jump in: Remind yourself of the potential consequences, like hypothermia, legal troubles, and encountering unexpected aquatic life.
  • How to enjoy the Chicago River safely: Take a boat tour, go kayaking or paddleboarding (with proper safety gear), or simply enjoy the view from the Riverwalk.
  • How to help keep the Chicago River clean: Participate in local cleanup efforts or support organizations dedicated to river conservation.
  • How to find alternative cooling methods: Explore splash pads, beaches, or simply enjoy the indoors with air conditioning.
  • How to appreciate the Chicago River's beauty: Take a leisurely walk along the Riverwalk, capture stunning photos, or learn about its history and ecology.
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cps.eduhttps://www.cps.edu
cookcountysheriffil.govhttps://www.cookcountysheriffil.gov
uchicago.eduhttps://www.uchicago.edu
wbez.orghttps://www.wbez.org
weather.govhttps://weather.gov/lot

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