River Rafting Safety Tips

Whitewater Rafting Safety Tips:

For one day or five whitewater rafting is one of the best ways to cool off in the summer heat for people of all ages and experience levels. That’s right, everyone! In the last 30 years, rafting has grown out of its wild and risky days into a family friendly activity. The invention of new safety gear and a better understanding of whitewater has helped the industry mitigate the risks of rafting.

Wear a Properly Fitting PFD

PFD’s, or life jackets, are the most important piece of equipment in white water rafting. Yes, even more vital than the boat, paddles, or guide. It is a hard rule: do not go on river without a PFD. Unlike lakes or oceans, river water churns chaotically in rapids.

Be Mindful

The majority of river trip injuries happen on shore not on the river. Be aware of your movements getting on and off the boats and at camp, hiking stops or lunch. It’s easy to twist an ankle, accidentally slice your hand on a dinner knife, or get a burn from boiling water.

Dress to the Day

In the spring, cold air combined with cold water creates a very real hypothermia threat; and in the summer, the reflective water doubles your sun exposure, increasing the risk for heat stroke. Make sure you check the weather forecast for a general idea of what you should be prepared for going into your trip.

Swim Properly

Similar to the proper use of a life jacket, swimming correctly in the river can help you conserve energy and avoid unnecessary risk. Use the defensive swimming position, floating on your back, looking downstream with your toes out of the water. Although it is an instinct to stop your motion by standing up, this is one of the more dangerous moves on the river.

Speak Up

Much of rafting safety is in your control. Guides are doing everything they can to keep you safe, but a large portion is in your hands. If you are uncomfortable with going on a certain section of a hike or don’t want to take an inflatable kayak down a rapid, that’s okay! Just let a guide know that they will help you. The guides are there to keep you safe.

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