White water rafting is an exciting, adrenaline-pumping sport that can take you on a wild ride. But it’s important to remember that it’s not just about having a good time; safety is paramount. Before you and your friends hop into your raft and head out on the river, make sure you brush up on these essential safety tips. From wearing the proper safety gear to always keeping an eye out for potential hazards, these tips will help ensure that you and your group stay safe and have a fun, memorable trip. So, if you’re ready to hit the rapids, keep reading to learn the 7 essential safety tips you should know before going out on the river.
Top Essential Safety Tips
1. Wear the proper safety gear
Safety gear is essential when it comes to white water rafting. You’ll need to wear appropriate clothing and gear, including a helmet, a life jacket (PFD), and sturdy footwear. Life jackets are required by law, so make sure you and anyone in your group wear one at all times. Life jacket types vary, so make sure to choose one that fits correctly and is suitable for your needs. When it comes to footwear, make sure you wear sturdy boots that are designed for hiking and walking in wet, rocky conditions. You don’t want to risk getting your feet caught in a rock or log, as this could result in a serious injury. If you’re bringing small children with you, make sure they are wearing proper safety gear as well. You can outfit kids as young as two years old with a PFD, life jacket, and helmet.
2. Know the river and its conditions
Before you set out on the river, make sure you know the conditions of the water and the river you plan to go down. This means finding out what the level of the water is, if there are any known hazards and if there are any special conditions that could affect the trip. The level of the water is measured in cubic feet per second (CFS) or cubic meters per second. A higher CFS level means there is more water flowing through the river, and this can result in greater rapids and increased difficulty. Some rivers have hazards, such as low-head dams or rocks, that can cause serious injury or even death if you hit one. Make sure you know about any potential hazards so you can avoid them. Other conditions that could affect your trip include the weather forecast and water flow. If there is rain in the forecast, you will want to avoid rafting, as increased water flow can cause dangerous conditions.
3. Have a plan and communicate it
Before you head out on the river, make sure you and your group have a plan and communicate it. This means everyone should know where everyone is sitting in the raft at all times. It’s also a good idea to assign a spotter to make sure everyone is wearing their life jacket and to keep an eye out for hazards. This spotter should be in the front of the raft, facing backward so they can keep an eye on everyone in the group. This plan should also include an evacuation strategy. You need to know what to do in case of an emergency and have a plan in place for dealing with different types of accidents that could occur on the river. The type of accident will dictate what your evacuation strategy is. For example, if someone has an injury that impairs their ability to swim, you’ll want to have a designated first-aid responder who knows how to administer CPR.
4. Come prepared with the right supplies
When heading out on the river, make sure you come prepared with the right supplies. Some of these supplies should be waterproof and serve multiple purposes, such as a poncho that can be used as a tarp or a dry bag that can store your valuables. This way, if there is a sudden rainstorm or if something unexpected happens, you’ll have what you need to stay safe and comfortable. Here are the things you should always have with you when rafting: These items may seem like common sense, but things can get chaotic and disorganized on a trip, especially if there are kids involved. Keep these supplies organized and accessible so you don’t have to scramble if something goes wrong.
5. Stay aware of potential hazards
Once you’re on the river, make sure you stay aware of potential hazards. You’ll want to be extra vigilant and look out for changes in the water flow, low-head dams, other rafters, and wildlife. Low-head dams are a common hazard on rapids rivers and can be extremely dangerous. If you come across one, make sure you know what to do. Here’s what you should do if you come across a low-head dam: If your life jacket is on correctly, staying afloat will be easier, and you’ll be able to get out of the water easier if you hit the dam. If you’re in the raft, you should try to avoid the dam by steering around it. If you hit it, unplug your oar and get out as soon as possible. If you’re in a kayak, you may have to get out and drag your kayak around the low-head dam.
6. Understand the importance of knowing how to swim
Another important safety tip is knowing how to swim. White water rafting is not a swimming activity, and you should never try to swim at a rapid. If you fall out of the raft and your PFD is on correctly, you’ll be able to float, but you won’t be able to swim. Before hitting the rapids, make sure everyone in your group knows how to swim. If anyone doesn’t know how to swim, you should find an experienced white water instructor to teach them before hitting the river. Always keep an eye on children and make sure they are wearing their life jackets and can swim if they fall out of the raft. If a child falls out of the raft, you should immediately use your oars to try to guide them toward the boat. If they can’t swim, you should have someone else grab them out of the water.
7. Have a designated first-aid responder
Finally, one of the most important safety tips is to have a designated first-aid responder in your group. This first-aid responder should know CPR and have knowledge of how to administer first aid for different types of injuries. In an emergency, this person will be able to keep everyone calm and comfortable until medical assistance arrives. When it comes to first aid, there are two things you should know: If a person is injured, you should keep them warm and comfortable. This will help to minimize the damage the injury has caused. First aid is about monitoring the injury, managing the patient’s condition, and preventing complications. White water rafting is an exciting sport, but it’s important to remember that safety is always key. Make sure you and your group follow these essential safety tips to stay safe and have a fun, memorable trip.