As much pleasure and excitement as whitewater rafting is, we must not forget that the elements of nature pose a risk. This well-liked sport is now more mainstream than it has ever been. There was no intention of making a joke. However, there are a few precautions you and your family can take to ensure that your white water experience is enjoyable and that you will remember it fondly for years to come.
No matter how easy or difficult your rafting adventure may be, you should always follow some basic safety precautions to make your amazing adventure as safe as possible.
1. An Eligible rafting outfitter.
When looking for an outfitter, be sure to ask them a lot of questions. Look into how long they’ve been in business under their current management. Inquire about their guides’ training and the government agency that oversees their outfitter’s permit and training processes.
You’ll know you’re working with a professional outfitter if you see this. Choosing a competent outfitter will assist you in adhering to the following guidelines.
2. Know Your Physical Limitations
Are you an excellent swimmer? Can you put up with a couple of hours of upper-body exercises? If this is the case, congratulations! If you don’t know how to swim, consider taking some lessons before your vacation.
When going on longer rafting trips, it’s a good idea to work on your upper body.
3. Always wear a life jacket, or personal flotation device (PFD).
Wearing a life jacket, however, does not guarantee that it will save your life. It has to be worn properly. All buckles must be fastened, and the jacket must fit snugly around your body. The idea is to get the jacket fitted properly so that you can breathe while also preventing the garment from being pulled up over your head.
Always have your jacket fitted by a competent advisor. This guarantees a precise fit.
4. Never Go Rafting Alone
Wearing a life jacket, however, does not guarantee that it will save your life. It has to be worn properly. All buckles must be fastened, and the jacket must fit snugly around your body. The idea is to get the jacket fitted properly so that you can breathe while also preventing the garment from being pulled up over your head.
Always have your jacket fitted by a competent advisor. This guarantees a precise fit.
5. Hold the paddle properly.
Wearing a life jacket, however, does not guarantee that it will save your life. It has to be worn properly. All buckles must be fastened, and the jacket must fit snugly around your body. The idea is to get the jacket fitted properly so that you can breathe while also preventing the garment from being pulled up over your head.
Always have your jacket fitted by a competent advisor. This guarantees a precise fit.
6. Don’t Raft In The Dark
Rafting should be done while the sun is shining brightly. Try to plan your trip so that it ends before the sunsets.
There is “moonlight” rafting on various rivers, however, this should only be done with reputable firms and operators. Rafting in a pitch-black river might be a little unsettling.
7. Stay in the boat!
This may appear to be common sense, yet it is not always the case. You’re in the boat one minute and swimming alongside it the next. When rafting, keep an eye out for rocks coming from the river. Just before the boat hits a rock, your guide may issue the command “Bump.” If your guide says, “Bump!” lean in and place your paddle’s “T” grip on the boat’s floor.
Make sure your hand is still above the grip. If you correctly perform the “Bump” command, the blade end of the paddle will be in the air and your fist over the grip will be on the boat’s floor. You should be able to stay in the boat if you do this.
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