Venturing into a river or stream during hot weather can seem like a tempting way to keep cool, but rivers and streams carry hidden dangers. The water is cold and underlying currents are swift. Brief exposure to the cold water of a river or stream can lead to hypothermia and loss of dexterity. Swift currents can quickly exhaust even an experienced swimmer and carry them into rocks, trees, and other vegetation within the river channel. So play it smart and avoid going into a river or stream. You could drown or become the victim of a water rescue!