An 11-year old boy became stuck in mud nearly up to his thighs while looking for turtles in Clear Creek had to be rescued on December 23. Friends, who were with the boy, ran for help when the boy became trapped. He was stuck in the mud for about 40 minutes.  This is the second creek rescue in as many weeks.  On December 14, a woman got stuck up to her waist in the mud in Clear Creek while searching for her dog. A neighbor heard her cries for help and summoned emergency responders. In both instances, the victims were lucky that there were people around.

The mud has an ability to grab ahold of you.  Because of the muddy nature of the silt, standing in one spot for too long will make you slowly sink into the mud.  The further you get stuck, the more difficult it is to get out.  As your foot or leg becomes submerged, the mud fills in around, creating suction. So, when you try to pull your leg out, it doesn’t want to give. The effect is similar to that of quicksand, but slower.

Residents are reminded to be cautious in and around creek areas.