The Importance of Wearing Life Jackets During a River Float
Wearing a life jacket is a very important lifesaving practice necessary every time you are out rafting, kayaking, or tubing. While it’s unlikely you’ll fall overboard on your leisurely float adventure, it is an important practice (and is the law on the Bow). Some people don’t believe this will happen to them, but wearing a life jacket while on the water can save your life, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
It’s estimated that at least 85% of people involved in a water accident were not wearing a PFD (personal flotation device). For your safety, it is the law to have a life jacket for each person on any watercraft, and not doing so could cost you hundreds of dollars.
How to Choose the Proper Life Jacket
The difference between life and death in the water can come down to choosing the right personal flotation device for the activity you’re doing. Different life jackets perform different tasks, such as rotating you so your body stays face-up in the water, even if you’re unconscious.
For your convenience, and to take the guesswork out of it, Lazy Day Rafts provides PFDs as part of your rental. We have all sizes, from infant to extra-large. Even your furry friends can join in safely!
The Benefits of a Life Jacket
- Keeps you warmer in the water: Though the Bow River is warmer than most rafting rivers, it can feel quite cold on cooler days. A well-fitted life jacket acts like a wetsuit, keeping the water under the vest much warmer than the water around it.
- Reduces the risk of drowning: Even strong swimmers get tired, since the average person can only swim continuously for about 30 minutes. A life jacket is designed to keep you safe and floating, and research shows wearing one increases your chances of survival by up to four times if you’re submerged.
More Ways to Stay Safe on Your Float
A life jacket is your most important piece of safety gear, but a few small preparations go a long way toward a smooth, worry-free day on the water.
- Sun protection: Calgary sun, plus the extra glare off the water, adds up fast. Bring a water-resistant, high-SPF sunscreen and reapply every couple of hours. A hat and sunglasses help too.
- Protect your phone: Keep your phone in a waterproof case or dry bag (available at the launch site if you don’t have one), and bring a backup battery if you plan on taking a lot of photos.
- Wear the right footwear: Comfortable clothing and a bathing suit are great, but skip the flip-flops, since the shoreline can be rocky and water shoes or sneakers are a safer bet.
- Stay aware: Keep an eye on your surroundings, pull over to a safe bank before napping, and if an unexpected storm rolls in, get off the water until it passes.
Lazy Day Raft Rentals
We want you to be safe, comfortable, and confident every time you’re out on the water. We rent quality rafts, kayaks, and packrafts, with PFDs included in every rental. Before each trip, our crew will walk you through all the safety basics, because your safety is our top priority.
You can reach us by calling (403) 258-0575 or emailing us at [email protected]. Visit us at 720 3rd Street NW, Calgary, AB (in the rear of the Calgary Curling Club) to start your adventure today!