Is whitewater rafting safe?
Like all adventure activities, whitewater rafting is a risk. French Broad Rafting Expeditions does not assume liability for personal injuries. You will be asked to read and sign a waiver agreement prior to your trip. We do not allow anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol to go on any of our trips. No refunds will be made.
• The Ocoee Rafting staff will do everything possible to provide you with a trouble free river experience. The safety of our guest is the foremost concern of our staff. The sport of whitewater rafting has inherent risks that are beyond human control and must be assumed by the participant. All participants are required to sign a waiver of liability/assumption of risk document. All participants will be provided with a lifejacket and helmet and a safety briefing will be given before the trip. We want everyone to be comfortable and to have a safe, fun experience.
Whitewater rafting is an outdoor adventure sport and does contain a certain level of risk and danger. Keep in mind that the level of risk and danger increases as the class of the river increases. We do our best to provide all of our guests with safe and enjoyable rafting tours. Unfortunately, accidents and fatalities can occur on the river. If you have an existing medical condition, it is best to consult your physician before taking part in any outdoor adventure sport. All of our guides are trained in first aid and CPR and have been certified as raft guides by the Ohiopyle State Park. All rafting tours pack first aid kits, rescue ropes and equipment, and radios to communicate with our base.
Every adventure activity has some degree of risk, and whitewater rafting does as well. However it is actually surprisingly safe, with more than 200,000 people rafting safely each year on West Virginia’s rivers. (No, they’re not all there at once, so don’t worry, it isn’t crowded!) Modern equipment used by outfitters has many safety features, and river guides have extensive training that includes many safety precautions. Plus, each trip begins with instruction in how to raft safely. Do I need experience? No! Although some rivers are suitable only for experienced rafters, many sections of West Virginia’s rivers are perfect for first-time rafters, including children. Most outfitters offer trips geared to varying levels of experience. Just be sure to discuss your needs with the person who takes your reservation, who will be well trained to guide you to the right option for you. Can I do it? You betcha nearly everyone can-even those who are out of shape, overweight, elderly, physically chal
