If you're sweating the safety of an upcoming white-water rafting trip on Colorado's mighty Arkansas River, there are reasons to be less anxious. According to the Arkansas River Outfitters Association, tour operators must have a Colorado state license and meet safety and ethical standards. Requirements cover everything from guide training to the gear on the raft and the types of clothes passengers must wear, the AROA reports.
Risk
Even with safety standards in force, there remain inherent risks to jumping on a raft and navigating the choppy waters, according to Dr. A. Stewart Levy with the University of Colorado. In a 2000 article in the CNI Review Medical Journal, Levy noted white-water rafting wasn't as deadly as climbing -- at nearly 70 deaths -- or even hiking or biking -- at 36 deaths -- but it still resulted in nearly 20 deaths over the preceding three-year period. Levy said most of these deaths were caused by head injuries, sustained from falling out of the raft and hitting objects like rocks. With that, Levy stresses that all rafters should wear helmets during their trips.
Ratings
You can reduce your risk of injury by knowing your capabilities and heeding the classification system for each respective trip. According to trip operator Whitewater Adventure Outfitters, excursions classifications are from one to five, with "one" being a trip for beginners and children, and "five" intended for those with white-water experience. Trips on the lower end of the spectrum encounter fewer fast currents, large waves or obstacles than those with higher classifications. Those new to rafting, as well as the very young, old or non-swimmers, should stick to the more serene rides, courtesy of a class one or two trip.
Operators
You place a lot of trust in the hands of your tour guide. As such, the AROA suggests you contact the local Chamber of Commerce to see which companies the chamber recommends. You can also check the AROA website for their member businesses. The association contends its members typically exceed state requirements with regard to training. While researching the company for your trip, look into the experience of the guides. Find out if they have certification in first aid or water rescue. Ask if they have wetsuits, helmets and other equipment available. In some cases, depending on the section of the river, you will need these items, as well as a self-bailing raft.
Training
Your guides should have an understanding of first aid, CPR, and specialized training in river guiding and rescue techniques, according to regional rafting company Arkansas Valley Adventure. It's good if the guides have extensive experience as emergency medical technicians or wilderness first responders. In addition, the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area adds another layer of security for would-be rafters. The state division monitors conditions along the river and the operators who conduct tours. Several companies, including Arkansas Valley Adventures and WAO, offer safety talks prior to the trip, which outline their expectations for your conduct.
Restrictions
Even the most mild rafting excursion is a no-go for children under 45 pounds, according to WAO. On the other end of the spectrum, because life jackets are necessary, your chest must be able to accommodate this device. If your chest is greater than 55 inches, you'll have to re-think your plans. You'll also need an alternative activity if you weigh more than 300 pounds because of raft restrictions. Though a medical condition doesn't necessarily mean you can't go on a white-water trip, let your guides know if you have diabetes, epileptic seizures, arthritis, cardiac conditions, are pregnant or plan to get pregnant, according to AVA.
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