CENTRAL - The Central Fire Department is warning residents to practice safety around rivers, after two separate diving injuries during the week.

Since the beginning of the year, there have been five reported injuries involving people jumping or diving into the Amite and Comite Rivers.  One of those resulted in a fatality. Some of the injuries require special machinery in order to reach the area, including ATVs, boats, and helicopters.

"It's created injuries," Central District Fire Chief Derek Glover explained. "Neck, back, spinal cord injuries and leg injuries."

Thursday, one person was injured jumping or diving into the Amite River near Florida Blvd. Tuesday, the fire department responded to injuries on the Comite River near the Blackwater Road Park.

The depth of those rivers varies.  Glover says constantly changing currents and waters create a dangerous environment, with branches and logs floating under the water.

"The debris in the river is very hazardous," Glover said. "If you land or fall on that debris, you could be injured."

Glover also warns that alcohol increases risk of injuries in these situations.

"People that consume alcohol usually make poor decisions," Glover noted.

Glover urged people to think before swimming in the rivers, especially during the holiday weekend.

"Use good common sense."