HOW TO...SAFELY CROSS A RIVER

River crossings should always be approached with caution. Use Rob Johnson’s advice for safe travels.

Fast-moving water is incredibly powerful and represents a serious hazard. The water will be cold, the riverbed slippery and uneven, there could be branches and boulders waiting to trap a foot, and the consequences of someone getting swept away are very real. If somebody falls backwards with a foot jammed between two boulders, water pressure can pull the head under and hold it down. As a general rule, if the water is more than knee-deep I don’t want to go anywhere near it. I would sooner turn back, find another route or wait for the levels to drop. Even knee-deep water can be too hazardous to cross if it is fast flowing.

As with most mountain hazards, river crossings can be avoided in the planning stage. If heavy rain is forecast then think about the streams and rivers that the planned route will cross. Are there bridges? Is it possible to become trapped? Will the rain get worse as the day goes on? There will be occasions where, even with the best planning, we come across a river that we want to cross. Here’s how to do it safely...

CHOOSING A CROSSING POINT

Check your map to see if there are any bridges nearby. If not, walk along the river looking for the following:

● Shallow, slow-moving water

● A smooth riverbed without entrapment hazards such as boulders or tree roots

● Low banks for easy access and exit

● A straight section – water accelerates around the outside of river bends

● A safe area of water downstream – not a waterfall, for example, in case you get knocked off your feet

PREPARATION

Wear boots to protect your feet in the crossing. Rucksack straps should be loosened and waistbelts/chest straps undone. If you’re in a group, make sure that communication is clear and everyone understands the plan. Any group method requires an appointed leader to coordinate movement. In a formal leadership situation, it may be appropriate for the leader to accompany each group member. However, if the leader is unhappy about making a solo return that’s inappropriate. A dry run is a good precaution, ensuring everyone understands the procedure.

CROSSING TECHNIQUES The feet should generally point upstream and be placed carefully and firmly. The key to wading is to try to present as small a surface area to the current as possible.

ONE PERSON

Using poles or a stick, face upstream, leaning on the poles and move one point at a time. Keep one foot downstream of the other and move along sideways or diagonally, like a crab. Presenting a low profile to the force of the water is important to reduce pressure.

IN A LINE

The leading person is supported by the people behind, who try to push downward on the shoulders or hips. This significantly reduces the likelihood of the leader’s feet being washed from under them. The eddy created by the leading person protects other members.

IN A WEDGE

At least three people are needed for this, with the biggest and strongest people at the apex of the wedge. The rest of the group are protected from the main force of the current and can cross in relative ease.

HELP!

If swept away, keep the feet up and downstream in order to protect the body. Other members should go downstream to help, as the aim is for the rescuer to avoid getting wet. Ideally a pole is offered for the swimmer to grab, as trying to catch them directly involves greater risk.

These techniques are taken from the Hillwalking handbook published by Mountain Training UK.