Montana rivers are popular for recreating in canoes, kayaks, and rafts. As the weather warms, it is worth talking about safety. River levels can change drastically anytime but especially with warmer weather triggering spring runoff and rainfall. The increased river flows make passage and maneuverability much more difficult. First and foremost advice: It is always a good idea to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device. It is better to be safe than be a statistic.

Even if you're just enjoying the river from the bank, fishing or wading, rivers can be dangerous. If you have children with you, be within arm's reach of them if they are playing on the bank or wading. Rivers have unexpected drop-offs and swift currents.

Related article: Tips for your tippy canoe - be safe on the water

Here are more important tips for river safety. It is always a good idea to tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be off the river.

What to know before you launch on a river excursion:

• Be honest with yourself when evaluating your skills (and skills of others in your party). You will have a safer and more enjoyable trip if you choose sections of the river that match your ability.
• Check on current water levels before embarking on your trip. The difficulty level of certain sections of river can change dramatically with changes in water level. Gentle stretches can become dangerous with high water levels. At extremely low levels, you may find yourself paddling through puddles, dragging the canoe over rocks, or portaging.
  • Under this tip, rivers, especially free stone rivers, change after large runoff flows. Channels can move and dangerous hazards such as whole trees with root wads can be deposited. Scout and research your river stretch before launching if you think it might have changed since your last float.
• Know your physical ability, swimming skills and paddling skills. If you are uncertain about how much you can do, start with a short trip.
• Know how to recognize and react to river hazards such as holes, wrap rocks, undercut boulders and walls, rock sieves, and horizon lines across the river.
• Take time to find out which lands along the river belong to private landowners. The Forest Service has USGS quadrangle maps that have national forest boundaries marked on them.

On the river advice:

• Wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket at all times. Even gentle stretches of water can have wicked undercurrents. Yes, even good swimmers are advised to wear one.
• Don’t boat alone.
• Scout rapids and make rescue plans if needed. Be aware that on some sections of rivers, land access may be difficult and help is far away. When in doubt, be sure to scout; still in doubt, portage.
• Learn basic water rescue techniques and first aid. Learn to recognize the symptoms and treatment for hypothermia. Even if a day is warm, weather squalls even storms can come up quickly and be severe.
• Learn or review medical aid responsibilities and CPR. Avoid rattlesnakes and poison oak, but know how to deal possible emergencies if they happen.
• Carry the proper equipment including dry clothing and a first-aid kit. Store all extra gear in a secure watertight container.
• Know your limits; do not attempt a section of river beyond your skill level.
• Pay attention to weather and water conditions. Wear wool clothing or a wet suit and dress for the water temperature. If the water temperature and air temperature combined total 100 degrees or less, wear protective clothing.
• If you capsize, hold on to your craft and get immediately to the upstream side. Float on your back, feet together and pointed downstream. If you go over a ledge or drop, tuck into a ball. Release your craft only if it improves your safety. Stay upstream away from the craft.
• Reduce injuries by wearing protective foot wear and proper clothing designed for river running.

No matter what your mode of transportation on a river, it is advisable to have the following items with you on your excursion:

• Sun protection – hats, sunscreen, long sleeves and pants
• First aid kit – know how to use it
• Bug repellent
• Plenty of food and water
• Life vests
• MAP – be sure you know where you are so you do not get lost!

Tie or secure all equipment to the watercraft– put the equipment into a waterproof bag to keep it dry. For a canoe, tie it to one of the center beams. For other watercraft, there may be a frame or even a dry-box to store equipment in.

Please, DO NOT LITTER– carry out everything you bring in.