Emergency Procedures Every River Tuber Should Know

Key Takeaways;

1. Understand the Environment: Be aware of the conditions where you're tubing. Are the currents strong? Are there objects around you? What about the weather?
2. Essential Safety Gear: Always wear a life jacket, helmet, and water shoes, and carry a water bottle to ensure safety and comfort while tubing.
3. Check Weather and Know Your Route: Before starting your tubing adventure, check the weather forecast and familiarize yourself with the river’s route, including entry and exit points.
4. Responding to Emergencies: If you fall off your tube, stay calm, grab your tube, and swim to safety. For strong currents, float on your back and avoid fighting the current.
5. Handle River Hazards: Steer clear of strainers and debris. If caught, use your legs and arms to maneuver around them. In case of sudden weather changes, seek shelter immediately.

Understanding the Environment

Before diving into the specific emergency procedures, it’s crucial to understand the environment you’ll be navigating. The Saco River, with its gentle currents and stunning surroundings, is generally safe for tubing. However, like any natural waterway, it presents potential hazards, including strong currents, submerged objects, and sudden weather changes. Being aware of these elements helps in anticipating and managing risks effectively.



Essential Safety Gear

Before you embark on your tubing adventure, make sure you have the following safety gear:

• Life Jackets: Vital for safety, they ensure buoyancy and provide protection in case of emergencies.
• Helmets: Important for rocky sections or fast currents, they help protect your head.
• Water Shoes/Sandals: Protect your feet from rocks. Choose comfortable, water-resistant footwear with a good grip.
• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a secure, reusable bottle.

If you’d like to learn more about gear essentials, check out this blog article: https://www.sacorivertubing.com/personal-gear-essentials-for-river-tubing

Before You Start

Check the Weather

Weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Always check the forecast before heading out. If there’s a chance of thunderstorms or heavy rain, it’s best to reschedule your trip.

Know Your Route

Familiarize yourself with the route. Saco River Tubing provides detailed maps and guidance about the river’s various sections, including entry and exit points. Knowing these will help you stay on course and avoid getting lost. Here is a map of Saco River! 

On the River

Stay Together

Tubing is more fun and safer in groups. Stay close to your companions so you can assist each other if needed. Agree on a meeting point in case someone gets separated.

Monitor River Conditions

Stay vigilant for changes in the river’s condition. Rising water levels, stronger currents, and floating debris can indicate a change in weather or upstream activity. Learn more about Saco River conditions here. 

Avoid Alcohol

While it might be tempting to enjoy a cold drink on a hot day, alcohol impairs your judgment and reaction time. Stay sober to ensure you’re alert and capable of handling any emergencies.

Emergency Procedures

If You Fall Off Your Tube

1. Stay Calm: Panicking will make it harder to stay afloat and find your tube.
2. Grab Your Tube: If possible, grab your tube and get back on. If it’s out of reach, look for a nearby tube or floating object to hold onto.
3. Swim to Safety: Swim towards the shore or a calm area of the river. Use a strong, controlled stroke to navigate the current.
   
   

Handling Strong Currents

1. Float on Your Back: Keep your feet pointed downstream to protect your head and body from impact with rocks.
2. Do Not Fight the Current: Let the current carry you while you navigate towards the shore.
3. Angle Towards the Shore: Use a gentle, diagonal swimming motion to move towards the riverbank.
   
   

Dealing with Strainers and Debris

1. Avoid Strainers: These are fallen trees or branches that allow water to pass through but can trap a person. Stay clear of them by steering your tube away.
2. Escape Techniques: If caught, try to push yourself up and over the strainer rather than through it. Use your legs and arms to maneuver around it.
   
   

Weather Emergencies

1. Seek Shelter: If you hear thunder or see lightning, get off the water immediately. Find shelter away from the river.
2. Stay Low: In case of lightning, crouch low to the ground, minimizing contact. Avoid trees and tall objects.

After the Trip

Check for Injuries

Once you’re off the river, check yourself and your companions for injuries. Even minor cuts and scrapes can become serious if left untreated.

Hydrate and Rest

River tubing can be exhausting. Rehydrate and rest to help your body recover from the exertion and any stress encountered during the trip.

Ensure a Safe and Thrilling Saco River Tubing Adventure

Tubing down the Saco River with Saco River Tubing is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors. By following these emergency procedures and staying aware of your surroundings, you can ensure that your adventure remains safe and enjoyable. Don’t wait for the perfect day to experience this thrilling activity—book your trip down the Saco River with us today and create memories that will last a lifetime!