Stream and River
wading safety tips

If you can avoid river wading then do so. This is the most important river wading safety tip you can get. Crossing rivers and waterways, especially those with cold water and swiftly flowing current, can be very challenging and dangerous for even the most experienced wilderness backpacker. However, if you decide to cross the river ahead of you by wading, some practical guidelines can be of great help for you.


Find the right spot

Always walk along the river bank and find a good place to cross. Look for a slow-flowing, obstruction-free section. Wide, relatively straight sections are generally shallower and less swift than narrow areas and sharp bends. Check the opposite bank to make sure it will be easy to clamber up.

Avoid river wading across swift-water areas that reach above your knee. Foot entrapment and subsequent drowning are a real hazard in strong current. Never underestimate the power of running water. Use a stick to aid balance.

If there is any doubt about your ability to safely negotiate a crossing in the location at hand, don't try it. Safety always comes first! Instead, thoroughly scout upstream and downstream for a manmade bridge, natural bridge, or a safer fording area. Study your topographic map for a more promising spot.


Wading across

Roll trousers up or take them off so you have them dry for the other side. Never bare feet. It's to easy to hurt your feet and if the water is ice cold you lose your sense after 10-15 seconds. Keep boats on, or better change to sandals, and keep your boots dry. Sandals are easy to dry.

Undo the belt fastening of your backpack so you can slip it off, if you get swept over. But don't let go of it. Use it to help you right yourself.

Face upstream and slide feet along bottom. By facing upstream, or at least up-current, you'll be able to read the current as well as prevent the force of the water from buckling your legs at the knees. Do not stride : shuffle sideways, using the stick to test for depth and trying each foothold before using it.

Sometimes it's safest to simply get your feet wet and wade across a river instead of trying to stay high and dry on a slippery log or a series of unstable, slimy rocks. If you elect to cross on logs or rocks, a walking stick can reduce the chance of a slip and fall.


Cross with a partner

If you are a group. Wade one at a time. Don't hold each other. If one falls, both will fall.


Crossings with ropes

In certain situations, a rope can be rigged from bank to bank as taut hand-line. Work your way across the river along the downstream side of the line. Never tie a rope to yourself as the force of the current will hold you underwater if you loose your footing.


Stream and river wading tips to be remembered.

Study the river or stream before crossing

Walk along the edge and look for the best possible place to cross.

Never enter the water unless there is no other way of getting across.

Choose a crossing point carefully. Look for wide, shallow areas with sand, gravel or cobble bottoms, which are usually safest.

Do not swim or wade through deep water, at low temperatures it could prove fatal.

While river wading, keep with you your survival kit.

In mountainous areas never try to cross a small river or creek after a heavy rain. Avoid river wading even if it looks safe. Flash floods can happen in seconds. Wait for the water to go down or find another route.

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