Safety First!
We take safety very seriously here a Dave Hansen, and so should you! Safety is always important, and especially important with the highly celebrated holiday Fourth of July coming up tomorrow. We have come up with some helpful river rafting safety tips and suggestions to help ensure you have a fun and safe holiday!
River Rafting Safety Tips Beforehand
Choose a licensed and professional river rafting outfitter.
Make sure you have the right clothing/outerwear for your river rafting trip. We have made this checklist in order to help you prepare what to bring and what to wear beforehand. Don’t forget we have wetsuits available for rent if you are afraid of being too cold or know you’ll want to jump in and swim!
River Rafting Safety Tips During
Before you get out on the river, your guide will distribute PFD’s (personal floatation device) to you as well as make sure that it is on correctly and tightened. Keep your life jacket as your guides have tightened it on you: make sure all buckles are clipped and that it is fitted snug to your body. The life preserver should fit so that it cannot be pulled over your head but loose enough so that you can breathe. Having your guide help you fasten your life preserver will ensure the perfect fit for river rafting!
Ask for a helmet if it makes you feel more comfortable. Helmets are not typically required during the heat of the summer, once the river goes below a certain level. If you feel more comfortable with a helmet, please don’t hesitate to ask!
Notify your guide of any medical conditions you may have before river rafting.
Hold the paddle properly. Your guide will explain how to hold paddle before getting on river. One hand should be at the base of the paddle on the shaft. The other hand should ALWAYS be on the end of the shaft over the “T” grip. Paddles can cause major pains when you hit the other rafters in your boat if you’re not holding them properly. Ouch!
Stay in the boat unless your guide has otherwise told you that it’s a good time for a swim.
Know the proper swimming techniques if you do happen to make it into the river. Your guide will explain these techniques to you before beginning your trip, so don’t forget to pay attention!
Last but not Least
Stay hydrated.
Don’t forget sunscreen!
Trust your Guide
Dave Hansen has some of the greatest and most experienced guides on the Snake River here to help and guide you along the way. Feel free to communicate with them and ask questions on river rafting safety. Most importantly, HAVE FUN!
