1. Colorado river rafting safety tips
2. Rafting enthusiast emphasizes river safety precautions.
Accident – Death – Obituary News : The recent rafting accidents along the Poudre River and the Colorado River have left the Colorado community mourning the loss of three individuals. The first tragic incident occurred on Thursday when a woman lost her life after the raft she was in struck a bridge pylon on the Poudre River in Larimer County. This marked the first known rafting fatality of the season, highlighting the dangers of whitewater rafting.
Just days later, another devastating incident took place on the Colorado River in the Yarmony Rapids area, resulting in the death of one man and the disappearance of another. The Grand County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased as Brent Boulter, a 56-year-old man from Aurora. The missing individual was identified as Thomas Russell, a 61-year-old man from Littleton. It was reported that neither of the men were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.
The Grand County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking any information regarding the whereabouts of Thomas Russell and has urged anyone recreating in the Radium or Rancho Del Rio area to report any sightings by contacting 911. These tragic events have prompted a somber reminder of the importance of safety measures while engaging in water activities.
Alan Blado, the owner of Liquid Descent Rafting, emphasized the inherent risks associated with rafting and stressed the significance of going with a licensed outfitter. In Colorado, rafting guides are required to undergo 50 hours of certified training, CPR certification, and first aid instruction. Blado ensures that his guides receive at least 100 hours of training to enhance their preparedness for various situations on the water.
Safety precautions such as thermal wetsuits, splash jackets, personal flotation devices, and helmets are essential to mitigate risks, especially during the cold water season. Blado also highlighted the importance of high-quality rafts, foot cones in seats for stability, and swift rescue protocols in case of emergencies. He emphasized the critical role of experienced guides in ensuring the safety of rafters.
With a solid snowpack this year leading to higher river levels and an extended rafting season, Blado urged rafters to take necessary precautions before embarking on their trips. He empathized with the families and friends of the victims and stressed the importance of conducting thorough research on outfitters’ safety records before booking a rafting adventure.
As the Colorado community grapples with these recent tragedies, the focus remains on promoting safety measures and preventing future accidents on the state’s beautiful yet unpredictable rivers..
rafting safety tips
Colorado river safety.
