BASIC TRIP INFORMATION
RIVER INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW* (continued)
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS:
- It is recommend that all persons wear a life vest at all times. It is required by law that each person have a Type 3 life vest within reach. Children under 12 MUST wear a life vest while canoeing. All persons regardless of age are required by law to wear life vests while canoeing on the Colorado River below the confluence with the Green River.
- To avoid the loss of equipment, use tie down lines to secure your gear inside the canoe at all times while canoeing.
- A portable water vessel such as a bucket or pail is REQUIRED for bailing, settling river water, or extinguishing campfires.
- THE IMPORTANCE OF SECURING YOUR UNATTENDED BOAT CANNOT BE STRESSED ENOUGH. When leaving a canoe unattended for any length of time ALWAYS tie it with bow and stern lines to a secure tree, rock or to a dead man anchor point. Check the security of all lines before going to bed. Where possible it is best to pull canoes completely out of the water, even when taking short walks away from the river.
- Be careful when canoeing in high wind. Never turn sideways against the wind. Canoes will capsize due to high winds. Most important is to paddle near a shoreline when hit by high winds. The best thing to do is to go ashore.
- NEVER camp or leave your canoe unattended in a canyon drainage no matter how calm the weather may seem to be.
- When camped on a sand bar, it is recommended that you place your camp away from the water's edge a minimum of 10 ft. Choose a sand bar that is 2 ft. or more above water level. Fluctuations in water level in the main river channel of more than 1 ft. in an overnight period are very rare.
- In the event of a medical emergency or other such problem during the trip, continue on to a pick-up point. Ground transportation is readily available at Ruby Ranch and Mineral Bottom. Jet boats are at the Confluence several days a week. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO HIKE OUT FOR HELP. Seek out other canoers for help.
- It is suggested that all swimmers wear a floatation device. State law requires persons swimming from a boat to wear a life vest.
- Be aware of all water and sun hazards. Swim at your own risk. Never jump or dive into the river. Wear shoes at all times while swimming or bathing. Protect yourself from the sun with suitable clothing. Sun glasses, hats and sun screen are advised.
*(adapted from Tex Riverways)