White Water River Rafting

Beginners Guide to White Water River Rafting

White water river rafting is both adventurous and dangerous at the same time; it is easy to see why some get addicted to it. It offers both great whole body exercise as well as an outdoor experience.

Rafting Facts for Beginners

First and foremost, know that you will get wet no matter what you do, so be prepared. It is a very fast moving sport, which leaves you with little time to think about what you need to do next so listen carefully to more experienced rafters around you.

Wear the required gear with no exceptions, as there is a real possibility that you will be thrown out of the raft and can easily get hurt on rocks or other things found in the river. A helmet is a must at all times whether you are a beginner or a more experienced rafter.

A life jacket is part of the gear without which no rafting expedition should take place; even the most experienced rafters have had difficulties with river torrents once thrown in the water.

Emergency Procedures for Rafting Beginners

White water river rafting can at times be very tumultuous and there may be one of the team members or all thrown overboard. If this occurs presence of mind and quick thinking is required to speedily rescue team members and recover the raft, whichever the case may be. In case one of the team members in the raft is thrown in the water, here are a few easy steps to follow to assist with the rescue mission:

Do not panic, that will lead to making a wrong move thus risking everyone’s life in the raft. Reach out if the fallen person is within reach and pull them up to the boat with both arms. If the person in the water is too far away, reach them with the paddle. Extend the handle towards the person in the water and hold strong on the other side.

Every raft meant for white water river rafting is equipped with a rope bag, which is to be used when a fellow raft member falls overboard and is too far to reach with the paddle. A very important rule is never ever to stand up in a raft as the high river torrents will overturn it in a split second and all of you will then need assistance.

The Thrill of the Game

White water river rafting is dangerous but very addictive as is whitewater kayaking; the fact that you need to be always careful and still get to enjoy the nature at the same time makes it one of the best summer sports. Follow the rules, use common sense and go with the flow, you will soon come back for more white water river rafting no matter how hard the first ride was.