RIVER SAFETY By Gemma Wilshier Keeping safe in

RIVER SAFETY! By Gemma Wilshier

Keeping safe in water When you are in water you have to tread to keep yourself above the water level, so you’re able to breathe. If you’re in a river there are normally rapids. Rapids can be very dangerous depending on the flow of the river. If possible I would avoid a rapid if you are not in a boat. When going down a rapid, when you’re not in a boat, you should lie flat on your back because most rapids get very shallow. Avoid rocks and logs because they be very dangerous in a rapid. Communication is very important if you are in the water. You should be able to hear someone talking to you at all times because if not, you can end up in a very dangerous situation.

Safety Equipment/Gear It is most important to have a life jacket, so that if you fall out, your head will remain above water level. A first aid kit is essential in case of cuts and injuries. Torches are essential on the river because there a lot of steep banks and cliffs around the river which you would have to be cautious of. A pocket knife is a good idea in case you need to cut ropes or netting that you or your canoe could get caught in. Rope can be used to pull a canoe that gets stuck on a log. Boat shoes will prevent slipping causing injury on and around the canoe.

Canoe Safety You should make sure that your canoe remains visible at all times to avoid collisions. All people should remain close to their canoe so your canoe doesn’t escape and injure others Plan your trip down the rapids and always form a ducky line Canoes should remain one boat length apart when navigating rapids Listen to all instructions from your guide Never be alone on the water. Make sure you can see a path through the rapids. Ensure you tell other where you are going. Let other canoes past when it is safe to do so.

Clothing should be light and warm. Multiple light layers are much better than one or two heavy layers. Dri-fit clothes are good to wear on the water as they dry quickly. Warm clothes like those from Hunting & Fishing are good to wear at night as they keep you warm. Wool is not a good option as it stays wet once it is wet.

Medical Safety A fully stocked first aid kit should be carried at all times. You should have plenty of blankets to avoid hypothermia. You should have ice packs to treat any swelling. Pain killers should be available to treat high temperatures or pain.

River Precautions When your going down the river you need to be careful of: Snags Rapids Cliffs Other boats Rocks And drinking the water

Environmental Awareness Use eco safety body products. Make sure you put your rubbish into bins or take it with you so that it doesn’t end up in the river.

Thanks For Watching!