Whitewater rafting can be a lot of fun. Whether you are on a vacation or you just want to get out of your house and cool off, this sport can be an invigorating experience. And if you are a fan of adventure sports, then you will surely love it. But there are some safety rules that you should adhere to so that you can not only enjoy the sport but also be safe while doing so. Here are a few rules that you must follow.
Pick a Professional and Licensed Rafting Outfitter
This is a no-brainer. You can ask questions and make sure that they have been employed with the business long enough to know the job well. Enquire about the level and type of training the guides there have had. Check which government entities are in charge of issuing the outfitters’ training practices and permits. When you are in the right hands, you can be assured that all the rules are being followed.
Have Your Life Jacket on at All Times
You may know how to swim but you will still need to wear a life jacket. If worn correctly, it can save your life. The jacket should fit snuggly and the buckles should be clipped right. Ensure that the jacket is not so tight that you cannot breathe easily. Also, if you don’t know how to wear one, have the professional fit the jacket.
Wear Protective Gear
To be safe as well as comfortable through the entire experience, wear the helmet they give you. It is like wearing a seatbelt while driving. It is just logical to wear one. In case anything were to happen during the rafting experience, your head will be safe in the helmet.
Learn the Proper Way to Hold the Paddle
One hand must hold the paddle’s base, on its shaft, while the other must be at the end of this shaft on the ‘T’ grip. You will be taught this in advance so learn it and hold it properly. It can become a massive safety concern.
Do Not Leave the Boat
It may sound like someone issuing common sense but it happens all the time. People often end up swimming next to the boat within seconds. So, when you are rafting, pay a lot of attention to oncoming rocks. Your guide will give you a clue about it and you will have to place your paddles inside the boat. Even if you do fall out of the boat, do not panic. Locate the boat and swim towards it. Someone will pull you back onto the boat in no time.