Security guards will now patrol the Whitewater River during the summer

(Andy Sternberg / Flickr)

A security guard will now patrol the White Water River in an effort to prevent trespassing and drownings.

The Coachella Valley Water District hired Southwest Protective Services – who will patrol from sunrise to sunset from May 20 and through September 30, according to KESQ. The cost for the service is $60,000.

“CVWD has repeatedly reminded residents and visitors that it is unlawful to enter the Whitewater River channel and area canals,” Katie Evans, director of Communications and Conservation for the district told the TV station. “We decided to take this additional step to further protect the public during the hot months when the temptation to visit the water is especially high.”

The move comes nine months after a 41-year-old man and his 7-year-old son died after the boy got swept up by the current of the Whitewater River and his father jumped in trying to save him.