How to Start River Rafting

River rafting is an exciting sport that offers chills, spills, and adventure, all in one delightful adventure. It is a sport with some risk associated it, so it pays to take some precautions before venturing on your first adventure.

Instructions

    • 1

      Do some research on river rafting companies in your area. You can do this by asking friends who go white water rafting, at sports equipment stores, and at stores like L L Bean that have Outdoor Discovery Schools, and are very knowledgeable about outdoor sports in general.

    • 2

      Ask if the guide who runs the river rafting tours is certified in CPR and First Aid, and if the guide's certification is renewed every year. As river rafting does have some risks, it would be best if this sport is guided by someone who knows how to respond properly in an emergency.

    • 3

      Inquire as to whether the guide or guides are Licensed to Paddle. Such certifications are generally issued by a state department in the state where the rafting company operates, or the departments of wildlife or forestry. Guides who are not certified may not have the necessary safety training as required by the state.

    • 4

      Study the website of the river rafting company. If would be best to go river rafting with a company that is truly knowledgeable not only about the sport, but the river or body of water on which the river rafting company operates. If only general information is offered on the site, think twice about choosing that company to begin river rafting.

    • 5

      Make reservations for the day of your river rafting adventure. This will be especially important during the height of the river rafting season. Get detailed directions to the company where you made reservations, and a number that you can call should you get lost en route.

    • 6

      Eat before you go on your trip. With the river rafting lessons you receive before the trip begins as well as the trip itself, it may be quite a while before you eat again.

    • 7

      Wear clothing that will dry quickly, such as a bathing suit, surfing shorts, t-shirts and shorts. Bring a dry set of clothing to change into after your trip is finished, for you must expect to get wet while river rafting.