Is it essential for you to go over?
In the wilderness, navigating river crossings can be a challenging yet essential part of a tramping journey. Our Operations Manager, Watson, offers some valuable advice to help trampers stay safe.
When considering a river crossing, Watson suggests asking three key questions: 1) Do you need to cross? 2) If yes, where? 3) If yes, how?
Before making a decision, it's crucial to assess the safety of the river. Watson recommends finding a good viewing spot on the riverbank and looking for signs such as the river flowing faster than one's walking pace, discoloured water, or the presence of debris. These indicators may suggest that the river is probably unsafe.
For those who are inexperienced in river crossings or identifying unsafe rivers, it's best to avoid such situations by selecting tracks that use bridges. However, for those who must cross, Watson has compiled a list of tips and resources for beginners, intermediates, and experienced trampers.
One such tip is the 'mutual support technique', which is the safest way to cross with other people. Details on this technique can be found in a short video. Another useful tool is the 'BREEDS' self-checklist, which Watson uses before every river crossing. This checklist includes factors such as bed surface, run out, entry point, exit point, depth, and speed.
Watson also advises against entering flooded or dangerous rivers. In such cases, it's safer to seek shelter and wait for the river level to drop, or turn around and head back the way you came. Always be prepared to change your plans to avoid crossing an unsafe river.
For those who wish to learn more about river safety, the E-Learning Tool is available. This resource provides valuable insights into safe river crossing practices. A story about a group of trampers who encountered a difficult river is also available for reading, serving as a reminder of the importance of river safety.
Remember, when it comes to river crossings, it's always best to err on the side of caution. If you're unsure about the safety of a river, it's usually safer to avoid it altogether. After all, it's uncommon for trampers to be in a situation where it's safer to cross a river than to stay put.
Stay safe, and happy tramping!
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