Rafting Safety Equipment

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
  Your personal flotation device is the most important purchase you can make as far as safety is concerned. It can mean the difference between life and death, so it’s important to buy a personal flotation device that is reliable, durable, and fits you properly. U.S. Coast Guard regulations state that you must have a class III PFD onboard, while the American Canoeing Association recommends that a PFD be worn at all times.


• Helmet
  Use a sturdy and correctly-fitted head gear to protect your head throughout the trip and against possible collisions with rocks and other objects should you get thrown out of the Raft.


• Rafting Clothing
  Cold can greatly affect your ability to think clearly and make sound decisions so stay warm while rafting. Find clothes that are loose-fitting, comfortable, and quick-drying. You may also want to follow the Three Layer System, wherein you wear three layers of clothes which are designed to wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you warm, dry, and protected.


• Sunscreen
  Sun’s rays reflected on the water are more harmful to your skin. Apply sunscreen as often as needed, even on cloudy days.


• Drinking water
  Rafting can leave you dehydrated, so it’s important to bring sufficient supply of clean drinking water with you. Bring a hydration pack with you. It consists of a bladder with a drinking tube around which the actual backpack has been built up. It will make water available when you need it.


• Patch kit
  Since even the best-quality boats can spring a leak, patch kits can provide an extra measure of safety. While some small holes can be patched with something as common as duct tape, read the instructions from your boat’s manufacturer on what to do to adequately repair a leak.