10 Commandments for Rafters(especially, first timers)

Adventure- Check!
Fun- Check!
High adrenaline- Check
Travel ticket booking- Check!
Camp booking- Check!

Awesome! So, you have made up your mind to go rafting!

Fun! As the water gushes down (Source)

As Poseidon, the God of seas and rivers speaketh through me, do take note of some pointers that you must keep in mind and follow solemnly!

10 commandments for rafters:

1. Thou shalt wear a properly adjusted helmetand life jacket throughout the rafting stretch.

It should feel tight and firm when you slide a finger between the strap and your chin.

2. Thou shalt adhere to the instructions given by the professional guide.

The instructor would give commands for paddling such as “forward”, “backward” and for safety like “get down” or commands that you crave hearing: “relax”. The occasional ‘war cry’ sure is inspirational as all team members shout out a slogan in symphony.

The war cry: boosting morale (Source)

3. Thou shalt NOT panic.

• In the event that you fall off the raft, the key is to not panic because if you do, you will end up taking in a lot of water in your mouth.
• Remember, your life jacket will immediately bring you on the surface.
• Try to grab hold of the raft. If you are close to the raft, swim towards the raft
• If you are away from the raft, lie on your back with your feet pointeddownstream. This will help avoid rocks/ obstacles. Do NOT try to stand.
• Hold on to your paddle. Hand over the grip end of the paddle to someone trying to help you, or someone you are trying to help.
• Reach out for the rope sticking out of the bag (not the bag itself). Put it over your shoulder with your face pointing away from the direction you are being pulled.

Lending a helping hand. (Source)

4. Thou shalt not wander in the dark

Ensure that rafting trips are timed to finish at least an hour before dark.

5. Thou shalt wear appropriate clothing.

Wet suits or fast-drying nylon t-shirts and shorts are comfortable. Avoid flip-flops, go in for floater sandals. Do not wear denims/ flowing dresses and jewellery. Do apply ample water resistant sunblock. If you wear spectacles, tie them around your head with a band. You could carry a waterproof zip-lock bag to keep minimum cash, adequate for a well-deserved glass of  lemonade or maggi after you have successfully completed the rafting stint.

6. Thou shalt be aware.

Try to be informed about the localweather. Avoid going when heavy rainfall/ storm is expected.

7. Thou shalt not swim without a life jacket and informing the guide.

So you think you can swim? Think you are the next Michael Phelps? Think again. Swimming in a pool is way different than in a river. There are under currents, eddies and whirlpools that cannot be escaped by employing swimming skills.

8. Thou shalt keep yourself hydrated and eat light.

The furious Ganges. Respect. (Source)

9. Thou shalt respect the fury of nature.

The river can be calm and serene at one moment and violent at the other. It is of utmost importance to keep safety measures in mind. Also, while camping and on the river, do not litter and keep the beauty of the place intact.

The calm and serene Ganges (Source)

10. Thou shalt have fun.

Enjoy! This is a thrilling experience. The idea is to take all the precautions and then freak out! Feel the adrenaline rush, re-energize yourself with the freshness of the water, realize the importance of leadership and team work, get awestruck by the grandeur of mother nature.