Stay Safe During Outdoor Water Activities in Hot Summer Weather

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor water activities, especially floating, rafting, and kayaking trips down the scenic Cuyahoga River with Float the River.

However, it’s essential to stay safe while having fun in the sun. There are many steps that you can take to ensure you enjoy all of your water adventures safely during the hot summer months.

Preparing for Your Trip

Before heading out for your water adventure, it’s crucial to prepare adequately to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential steps:

Checking Weather Forecasts

Always check the weather forecast before embarking on your trip. Severe weather can turn a fun day on the river into a dangerous situation. Look for weather updates and pay attention to warnings about storms, high winds, or excessive heat and plan accordingly.

Choosing the Right Time of Day

Plan your trip for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat of midday. This can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and make your adventure more comfortable.

Informing Someone About Your Plans

Let someone know your plans, including where you’re going, your expected return time, and who you’re with. This is a crucial safety step in case of emergencies.

Hydration and Nutrition

Staying hydrated and well-nourished is vital during any outdoor activity, especially in hot weather.

Importance of Staying Hydrated

Dehydration can occur quickly in the summer heat, so it’s important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your trip.

• Pre-hydrate: Drink water before starting your activity to ensure you begin well-hydrated.
• Regular Hydration: Aim to drink small amounts of water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty, to maintain hydration levels.
• Recognizing Signs of Dehydration: Be aware of symptoms like dizziness, headache, and dry mouth which indicate dehydration. If you experience these, take immediate steps to hydrate and rest in a cool place.

Carrying Sufficient Water Supplies

Bring enough water for the entire duration of your trip.

• Insulated Water Bottles: Using insulated water bottles can help keep your water cool, making it more enjoyable to drink, especially in the heat.
• Hydration Packs: For longer trips, consider using hydration packs that allow you to sip water hands-free, ensuring you can hydrate easily while on the move.
• Electrolyte Solutions: Include electrolyte tablets or sports drinks in your hydration supplies to replenish salts and minerals lost through sweating.

Recommendations for Nutritious Snacks

Pack nutritious snacks that provide sustained energy throughout your adventure.

• Energy-Dense Foods: Nuts, seeds, and energy bars are compact and packed with nutrients, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and bananas, along with vegetables like carrot sticks, provide hydration and essential vitamins.
• Avoid Heavy Meals: Heavy meals can make you feel sluggish and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Opt for light, easily digestible snacks instead.
• Balanced Nutrients: Ensure your snacks include a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to maintain energy levels and keep you feeling full longer.

Sun Protection

Protecting yourself from the sun is crucial to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion. You can feel the effects of the sun even during off-peak hours or cloudy days, so always be prepared for the sun in the summer, even when you may not think you need protection.

Using Sunscreen

Sunscreen is your first line of defense against the sun’s harmful UV rays.

• Application Tips: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin. Apply it 15 minutes before heading outside to allow it to fully absorb.
• Reapplication: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Water-resistant sunscreens are recommended for water activities but still need reapplication.
• Don’t Forget Key Areas: Often-missed areas like the back of your neck, ears, the tops of your feet, and the backs of your hands need protection too. Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips as well.

Wearing Protective Clothing

In addition to sunscreen, wearing the right clothing can significantly reduce your risk of sunburn and heat-related illnesses.

• UV-Protective Clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics with built-in UV protection. These clothes are designed to keep you cool while shielding your skin.
• Hats and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat provides shade for your face, neck, and ears, while polarized sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce glare from the water. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
• Cover-Ups: Use cover-ups or rash guards for additional protection, especially when spending extended periods in the water.

Seeking Shade

Whenever possible, take breaks in shaded areas to cool down and reduce your exposure to direct sunlight. Umbrellas or portable canopies can provide much-needed shade if natural shade is not available.

Proper Gear and Safety Equipment

Having the right gear and safety equipment is essential for a safe and enjoyable water adventure. Ensuring you have the appropriate items and that they are in good condition can make a significant difference in your overall safety.

Importance of Wearing Life Jackets and Helmets

Always wear a life jacket, regardless of your swimming ability. Life jackets provide buoyancy and can save your life in case of an accident. Here’s why they’re so crucial:

• Buoyancy: Life jackets keep you afloat, reducing the risk of drowning.
• Visibility: Many life jackets are brightly colored, making you more visible to rescuers.
• Emergency Situations: In unexpected situations, such as falling overboard, a life jacket can keep you afloat until help arrives.

When kayaking and rafting on fast moving water or rapids, wearing a helmet is also important to protect your head from injuries. Head injuries can be severe, and a helmet can prevent concussions and other serious trauma. Make sure the helmet fits snugly and is designed for water sports.

Choosing the Right Type of Flotation Device

Different activities may require different types of flotation devices. Here’s how to choose the right one:

• Activity-Specific Devices: For boating, opt for a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I or Type II life jacket. For waterskiing or personal watercraft, a Type III life jacket is usually more suitable.
• Fit and Comfort: Ensure that your life jacket fits properly. It should be snug but not restrictive, allowing for full movement.
• Children and Pets: Children should always wear a life jacket designed for their weight and size. There are also flotation devices available for pets.

Ensuring Equipment is in Good Condition

Regularly inspect your gear to ensure it is in good working condition. This includes:

• Life Jackets: Check for rips, tears, and punctures. Ensure all buckles and zippers function correctly.
• Helmets: Inspect for cracks or damage to the shell and padding. Replace helmets that have been impacted.
• Other Gear: Examine items like wetsuits, paddles, and boats for signs of wear and tear. Look for fraying, mold, or broken parts and replace any damaged equipment before your trip.

Additional Safety Tips

• Sun Protection: Wear UV-protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin and eyes from harmful sun exposure.
• Footwear: Use appropriate water shoes to protect your feet from sharp objects and slippery surfaces. A shoe that fits snugly is best so that it will not slip off in the water. Save your flip flops for the beach.
• First Aid Kit: Always carry a basic first aid kit to handle minor injuries and emergencies.

Proper preparation and the right equipment not only ensure safety but allow you to focus on having fun and making the most of your time on the water.

Safety Tips While on the Water

Staying safe while on the water involves a combination of awareness, preparedness, and responsible behavior.

Staying with Your Group

Always stay with your group and keep an eye on each other. This ensures that if someone encounters trouble, help is readily available.

Knowing Basic Water Safety Skills

Ensure everyone in your group knows basic water safety skills, such as swimming, floating, and how to properly use a life jacket. This can be crucial in preventing accidents and responding effectively in emergencies.

Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared for emergencies can make a significant difference in ensuring everyone’s safety.

Knowing How to Signal for Help

Familiarize yourself with the various ways to signal for help, such as using a whistle, mirror, or flares. Ensure that everyone in your group knows these signals and when to use them.

Carrying a First Aid Kit and Basic Repair Tools

Bring a first aid kit to handle minor injuries and basic repair tools for your equipment. Knowing how to use these items effectively can help manage small problems before they escalate.

Familiarizing Yourself with Emergency Contact Information

Keep a list of emergency contact numbers and local emergency services handy. Make sure everyone in your group knows where to find this information and how to use it in case of an emergency.

Kid-Specific Safety Tips

Extra precautions should be taken when children are involved in water activities.

Ensuring Children Wear Appropriate Safety Gear

Ensure that children wear life jackets and other appropriate safety gear at all times. This includes making sure their gear fits properly and is in good condition.

Keeping Children Within Arm’s Reach

Always keep children within arm’s reach, especially in and around the water. This ensures that you can quickly assist them if they encounter trouble.

Teaching Kids Basic Water Safety Rules and Skills

Educate children on basic water safety rules, such as not swimming alone, not running near water, and recognizing safe areas to play. Teach them basic skills like floating, swimming, and how to signal for help.

Stay Safe while you Float the River

Staying safe during outdoor water activities in the hot summer weather is essential for enjoying your time on the Cuyahoga River. By following these safety tips, you can ensure a fun, safe, and memorable experience out on the water this summer

At Float the River, we provide all of the necessary gear to keep you and your group safe while having a blast on the river. Whether you choose to float, kayak, or raft, we have what you need. Book your journey with Float the River today and stay safe while you enjoy the summer sun!