Water Safety

White Water Rafting

White water rafting has become very popular because it is a thrilling and invigorating activity. It can be a dangerous sport, and anyone who goes rafting should keep that in mind and have a healthy respect for the power of nature. Safety is a key issue for anyone who embarks on a white water rafting trip, and there are several things you can do to be cautious and secure.

Learn to swim.

The first step to take before getting involved in any water related activity is to learn how to swim. That is an essential skill to have before going rafting. If you are not a swimmer, find a local class and take lessons to get started.

Take a guided journey.

Anyone who is new to rafting in rapid water should start off by taking a ride with a professional rafter. There are many companies that provide this service. Check out each rafting company in your area, ask to see their safety records and find out about the precautions they take before you book a trip.

About your guide

Before taking a ride with any guide, you may want to ask a few questions. Find out if the guide is certified to perform CPR and if they have any other emergency medical training. Determine if the guide carries a waterproof radio so they can call for help if the need arises. Find out if the guide is aware of the skill level of each passenger who will be on the raft. Only ride with a guide that you are confident in. When you find a guide you trust, be sure to listen closely to everything that person tells you. They will have the experience and the knowledge to keep all of their passengers safe. The guide will give you a set of rules that you must follow for your own safety. Pay close attention and ask questions if you are uncertain.

What you will need to wear

Every rider must wear a Coast Guard certified life vest at all times. Any rafting company should offer vests to each person. It is also a good idea to have on solid footwear as you never know when you may have to walk through a river bed that is lined with rocks or other sharp objects. It is also a good idea to wear a helmet to protect your head in case of a crash. You should be aware that the water is likely to be very cold, and dress accordingly. If you own a wet suit, wear it for the trip.

Rafting without a guide

Those who are more experienced may choose to put together their own trip. It is important to never go alone; always have one or more people who can help you along the way. Another reason to take others is the transportation issue. The best plan is to pick a starting spot and an ending location. Park one vehicle at the final destination, then ride together to the start off point. That way you will have a ride back to the starting point when the trip is over. Be sure to keep the keys somewhere safe.

What to bring

It will be up to you to bring your own resources such as life vests, a first aid kit, a phone or radio to use in case of emergency, and drinking water. Carry as few things on the raft as possible to avoid adding extra weight or throwing the raft off balance. Always remember when you go rafting without a guide, your safety is in your hands.

One final thing to remember when you go white river rafting is that alcohol should never be part of the experience. While rafting, you will need to think and act quickly, and you can not be hampered by the affects of booze. Never drink or take drugs before rafting, follow a few important safety rules, and prepare for the ride of a lifetime!