White water rafting is one of the most adventurous sports around but it is also one of the most dangerous ones. This sport has inherent dangers and one must always be aware of the risks before he/she treads on to this sport. If you are aware of the dangers, then you will be able to equip yourself better and take the needed precautions. The following are the 5 dangers associated with white water rafting:
1. Drowning
Drowning is surely the number 1 danger associated with white water rafting. Once you tread onto rafting, then the danger of getting drowned is always looming. If your raft flips over or a high tide sweeps you off the raft, then there are high chances of drowning. It is important to wear a life jacket but even on wearing the jacket, the danger still looms. Only very good swimmers must think of getting onto a raft.
2. Hypothermia
Hypothermia is also a real danger which is associated with white water rafting adventure sport. White water comes as a result of spring run- off, snow melting and from the bottom of reservoirs and is mostly very cold. If you happen to get some water over you, which is obviously the case then there are chances of suffering from hypothermia. If this is a concern for you, then try rafting at a relatively warmer location.
3. Overexertion
White water rafting is not just a fun activity but is a very physically challenging sport. It can cause rafters overexertion which can be a big cause of death. Overexertion can not only cause heart attacks but also other such conditions which can lead to death. This is yet another danger associated with this adventure sport.
4. Smashing into Rocks
In cases of high tide, the raft may smash into rocks which can cause several types of injuries such as brushing, banging or even smacking of certain body parts. This is a very risky point associated with the sport and must be considered. Many people have suffered several such injuries while doing white water rafting.
5. Getting Stuck in River Features
Another dangers associated with white water rafting is getting stuck in river features. Swimmers can easily get lost in features, get stuck in holes or may be caught by downed trees. These dangers can put life at risk if the right help doesn’t reach on time.
