Outdoor Education…Character development through the outdoors

Rivers

TASK: While watching the video on River Running Techniques, make notes under the headings in your workbook

15 River Features.mp4

Hazards and what to do around them

Rocks

If you find yourself about to hit a rock and it's too late to manoeuvre around, go Greenpeace on it and give it a hug. Hugging a rock will mean you lean towards it and keep your head above water.

Strainers or trees

Above all others avoid these like crazy! But if you do find yourself about to hit a tree make sure you go over it.

Rafts or other boats bigger than you

You will often hear and see a motor boat or rafters on a river. They will often avoid you but just move to the sides of the river to be safe.

Holes

If you get caught in a hole, perform a wet exit and roll up into a ball. The water will spit you out down stream.

Water Features

Play waves

In river’s you can often find play waves. If you paddle onto the wave, facing your boat upstream, you can surf it and eventually skilled kayakers can even do tricks like backflips

Eddies

These often occur on the side of rivers, it is created by a barrier (like a rock) where water has to go backwards to fill in space. Eddies also create eddy lines, these are a beginners worst obstacle as they often catch you off guard and will tip you upside down. However get it right and it’s the perfect spot to rest.

Holes

Although these can be hazards, they are often fun to play around in. This is because they work similar to a wave and allow you to learn new skills, such as railing.

TASK: Draw your own river. Include some of the above water features and hazards. When finished, practice explaining all of the details to demonstrate your understanding of rivers. Be prepared to share.

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