If you are looking for some fun outdoor activities to enjoy, then white water rafting should definitely be at the top of your list. You don’t have to be a particularly outdoorsy kind of person to go rafting; you don’t even have to be experienced at all. Rafting today is open to people of varying experience levels and abilities. Whether you are going rafting with family or friends, you will need to ensure that you know the safety precautions so that you can have a great time. Here are some safety rules for you all to take into consideration.
Select a rafting outfitter that is professional and licensed. You will need to ask the outfitter lots of questions in order to gauge their level of professionalism. It is important to also find out how long the business has been in business, if their guides have received any training and which government entity regulates their permits and continuous training.
Ensure that everyone is wearing a personal floatation device or a life jacket at all times.Whenever you go Smoky Mountains river rafting, you must ensure that each person has one of these and that it has been worn correctly. It is important to have the professional guide check that each jacket is properly fitting before you go rafting.
Put on protective gear.This means that you will need to have your helmet on regardless of the rafting level. The helmet is not just for the really rough rafting, but for all levels.
Have the correct outerwear on. If you are rafting in the early days of spring, the water will likely be chilly. It is important that you have a wet suit on, the right river shoes and a splash jacket to ensure your comfort during the trip down river. These will keep you warm so you can have a great time without worrying about the chilly water. If you are visiting these Gatlinburg attractions in the summer, it will be better for you to wear clothes that dry fast and to also consider wearing some sunglasses and sunscreen as well.
Know how to properly hold your paddle. Knowing how to properly hold it can help you avoid unnecessary accidents. Your guide can show you the correct technique prior to getting in the boat. If not properly held, the hard plastic has been known to knock out teeth and give black eyes, not to mention getting lost down the river.
These are just a few tips to get you started. Be sure to listen to other safety tips as given by your guide.
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dynamohi Joined: January 28th, 2014 Articles Posted: 218
