High Water Dangers To Avoid

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High water can pose a danger to boaters anxious to get out on a river for a day of floating.   Boaters risk drowning or hypothermia if they fall into cold, swift moving water.   High flows also create overhanging brush or trees that act as sweepers that can “sweep” you out of your boat if you pass too close to the vegetation.

“Boaters need to be vigilant when water levels drop as well,” said Ron Jendro, FWP boating law administrator.   Floodwater can move trees and rocks and cut new channels or braids into a river.  

“When the water level goes down to normal levels, the river channel may be different than it was previously.   Vegetation or logjams may block normal paths of travel,” Jendro said.  

Every boat should also have a throw bag on board.   The throw bag holds several feet of line that can be used for many purposes, but especially to throw to someone who needs assistance on the water.

“Boaters always put the odds on their side if they ask about local conditions and are prepared to portage around hazards,” Jendro said. “Top of the list though, I’d say is always wear a life jacket.