This Season’s Must Have Rafting Accessories

While primary rafting accessories generally include rafts, this article highlights accessories that are off the beaten path, but are widely used by rafting enthusiasts.

Water-Purifying Filter – There are several types of diseases that humans can contract from drinking unpurified water. This can include the following:

Infectious Diseases – Bacteria, viruses and protozoa primarily travel through water sources.

Diarrhea – A sign of gastrointestinal infections, severe diarrhea is often associated with E. Coli.

Hepatitis A – This disease is related to drinking fecal-contaminated water. Symptoms can include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, fever and itching.

Cholera – Transmitted through feces, cholera can be a fatal disease. Symptoms include vomiting, rapid pulse and watery stool, and death can occur within 12 to 18 hours after the onset of symptoms.

Flukes – This parasitic worm lives in stagnant waters. If ingested, it infects the blood and can travel throughout the body, even to the brain.

Amoebiasis – Protozoa that thrive on water or sewage with flies cause this disease. This causes abdominal pain, fatigue, diarrhea, fever and weight loss.

Chemical Contamination – Run-offs from domestic houses, farms, industrial waste and commercial chemicals can cause bodily harm.

Pesticides – Backyards, golf courses and farms often use harmful pesticides that contaminate soil and groundwater. If these pesticides are ingested, they can cause endocrine and reproductive damage.

Lead – Fittings from pipes and household plumbing can contaminate water. When ingested, lead affects the central nervous system and is especially harmful to children and pregnant women.

Heavy Metals and Arsenic – Causing damage to the nervous system, arsenic and heavy metals are also responsible for liver, skin and blood vessel damage.

Just because water is clear and from a fast flowing stream, doesn’t mean it’s safe to drink. If potable water is at a premium, it’s best to consider using a water purifier, which helps ensure that water is safe for consumption.

Bail Bucket – Part of rafting can often involve removing water from a vessel. A bail bucket is designed to effectively scoop water. It is recommended that rafters keep it in an area where it is easily accessible.

Waterproof Containers – It’s important to keep valuables dry. Storing wallets, cameras, medications, etc., in waterproof containers helps ensure these items remain safe and secure. It’s best to choose a waterproof container that is bright, making it easy to find should it be thrown from the raft during a rafting trip.

Multi-Purpose Tools – To help open bottles, cans and tighten loose screws, it’s important to have a multi-purpose tool. This type of tool is handy for camping, hiking and other outdoor activities, such as white water rafting, making it a solid, long-term investment.