River Safety

  • Wear your lifejacket, properly fitted and fastened - it’s the law. NMAC 18.17.2.9

  • Be alert for hidden dangers

    • River features (rocks, holes, dams …)

    • Strong currents (especially pushing you into overhanging branches and strainers)

    • Hazards in river channel (jetty jacks, fences, fallen trees, etc.)

  • Avoid alcohol use: alcohol + water significantly increases risk of drowning (70% - read this!)

  • Cold water kills - dress for your accidental LONG swim! (NO cotton!)

  • Safety Code of American Whitewater

Stewardship - Care & Share the river

  • Respect others

  • Control trash and litter - Pack it in. Pack it out!

  • Avoid Wilderness and Wildlife Impacts

  • Control pets