Welcome to JRBP’s river safety blog, a place where we make sure your river adventures are both exciting and safe. Exploring rivers is awesome, but it's important to know how to stay safe. In this guide, we'll give you easy-to-follow tips and advice so you can enjoy the beauty of rivers while keeping yourself and others protected.
River Safety
Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, especially if you’re boating or tubing. It can save your life in emergencies.
File a Float Plan: Inform a friend or family member about your river trip plans, including your route, number in your party, departure and expected return time.
Learn to “Read” a River: Learn about the river’s currents and potential hazards. Some areas may have strong currents, hidden rocks, strainers, or undertows.
Check Weather Conditions: Before heading to the river, check the weather forecast. Avoid the river during thunderstorms, as lightning and heavy rain can be dangerous.
Bottom Down, Feet Up: Should you tip, do not try to stand in fast water. Float with your bottom down and feet up until you reach calm, shallow water.
“Climb that Rootwad”: Never try to go through a strainer or rootwad. Give it as much room as possible.
Mark your Vessel: Label all equipment with your contact information. Equipment can always be replaced; you can’t.
Supervise Children: Keep a close eye on children near the water. Even in shallow areas, they can be at risk.
Alcohol and Drugs: Avoid alcohol and drugs when swimming or boating. They impair judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents.
Buddy System: Swim or participate in water activities with a buddy. Having someone with you can be crucial in case of emergencies.
Respect Warning Signs: Heed any warning signs or flags posted near the river. They indicate potential dangers or unsafe conditions.
Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on hot days. Dehydration can affect your judgment and physical performance.
Cold Weather Paddling: Dress for the water temperature as well as the air temperature. Remember: anything but cotton, since cotton doesn’t dry quickly.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. A sunburn can make you more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
Know Your Swimming Abilities: Be honest about your swimming skills. If you’re not a strong swimmer, consider wearing a life jacket or staying in shallow areas.
Clean, Drain, Dry: Always make sure to thoroughly clean your vessel and equipment after paddling. Paddlecraft can be vectors for Aquatic Invasive Species.
This material is based upon work supported by Americorps under Grant No. 19VSWMO006
