Waterway Safety: What happens if you fall out of your boat?

1. Always wear a properly fitted life vest. You can fall out at any time, even if you don’t plan to.

2. Remain calm and assess the situation.

3. If you fall out in the rapids, float nose up, toes up. Feet pointed downstream.

4. Never try to collect your stuff before prioritizing your safety.

5. Do not try to stand in fast-moving water. Only walk or swim to shore or your boat if you’re sure there is no current.

6. If you’re unable to self-rescue, use a whistle, yell, or lift your paddle in the air.

7. If you make it back to your boat, remount or swim it back to shore. If you’re with others, they can stabilize your boat so you can get back in.

8. Having your phone or satellite device in a dry bag attached to your body is a good way to prevent being stranded. If you’re alone, use a device to call for help.

Remember, many of these steps take place before you even get in the water, such as having a life vest and a dry bag with a communication device. If an emergency happens, it is easier and less scary when you can trust your process and your gear.