Are you looking forward to spending a day out in the waters? If you’re looking for something new and different to try other than lounging on the beach with a good book in hand, then try a water activity, like Float the Bow River.
It’s enjoyable especially with friends and family, and not to mention refreshing, while exhilarating as well. It’s a great experience to have out in nature. Before you do that, however, you should keep in mind some important safety tips when doing water activities such as this.
Pay Attention to the Guide
Especially if it’s your first time doing something like this, you must pay attention to what the guide has to say. They will be giving you instructions on how to safely navigate your way on the water, the Do’s and Don’ts, and most importantly, emergency procedures to follow
Even if you’ve done something like this before, you should not assume that you already know what to do well enough to not listen to the safety instructions. Unless you are a professional, or you’re the guide yourself, paying attention to these pre-ride instructions is crucial not only for your safety but for everyone else going in the raft with you.
Wear Proper Attire and Equipment
Life jackets are not the most fashionable items you can wear. But they can most definitely save you in case you get thrown overboard the raft in open water. Wearing life jackets is non-negotiable in water activities like this, so don’t even think twice about putting it on.
That said, you should also wear clothes that fit the occasion. Wear something comfy, cool, and casual so that you can be comfortable in the raft. Also, you would want to keep your jewelry and accessories in your bag on dry land, because there’s no recovering them if they fall in the waters.
Wear comfortable footwear as well. Don’t wear socks and sneakers because these are going to get soaked anyway. There are sandals designed specifically for outdoor wear, which can protect your feet from rough terrain, but also are sturdy enough to withstand the waters.
Apply Proper Techniques
If you’re holding a paddle, make sure to use it properly. If you did listen to your guide in the first place, then you would know what the proper holding techniques are. This is so that you can paddle correctly and efficiently, which helps preserve your energy.
More importantly, it helps keep you and your companions safe. Boat paddles are not playthings, so you should not handle them recklessly. Otherwise, you put yourself and your company at risk of injury. With these simple tips, you should be well on your way to having fun floating down a river.