River Safety: What Are River Strainers and How To Stay Safe When You Encounter One

Water adventures are exciting, but they can also be dangerous. One of the main dangers is river strainers. These are objects found in rivers that can pose a serious threat if not handled carefully. In this post, we’ll provide an overview of river strainers and how to stay safe when you encounter one.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced river-goer, it’s critical to understand the dangers of a strainer. We’ll look at what you need to know about each type, how to identify them, and the top ways to reduce your risk and stay safe. With this knowledge, you can take the necessary precautions while enjoying your water adventures.

What Are River Strainers?

River strainers are objects in the water that allow liquid to flow through but entrap solid material. Common examples include fallen trees, logs, rocks, and anything else that can obstruct the flow of a river and create a barrier to swimmers or other objects in the water. They may not be visible from the surface of the water, so it is crucial to look out for them before entering or crossing any river or body of water.

River strainers can occur in any river, including small streams and fast-moving rapids. They are most commonly found in rivers with obstacles like rocks or fallen trees near their banks. Strainers typically move from their location as the current changes and can become even more hazardous during periods of high water or flooding.

How Do River Strainers Pose a Danger?

Entrapment

The most common danger of a strainer is entrapment. Swimmers or kayakers can become trapped between the strainer and the bank if they get too close to it, leading to potentially fatal drowning accidents. Currents and eddies created by strainers can also pull objects into them with tremendous force, resulting in injury or death even if they don’t become trapped under the strainer itself.

Drowning

In some cases, river strainers can act as a barrier between air and water, which traps air bubbles before they reach the surface. When someone gets caught in a strainer, they may find themselves unable to breathe due to a lack of oxygenated bubbles coming up from beneath them.

How to Spot River Strainers

Look for Debris

Debris floating on the surface of a river is a likely indicator of a strainer lurking below. Look out for eddies created by strainers that will swirl near their location. These circular motions indicate where something is blocking water flow beneath them, so always approach these areas with caution.

Paddle Facing Forward

One of the quickest ways to spot potential hazards like strainers is by paddling upstream with your head facing forward rather than backward so you can see any obstructions or telltale signs.

How To Avoid River Strainers

Plan Ahead

One way to stay safe when crossing rivers or other bodies of water is by planning and researching potential hazards before you set off on your journey. Check local news stations for recent reports about flooding.

Follow the River Flow

Follow the natural flow of the river to reduce your chances of coming into contact with an object like a strainer. Always pay attention to your surroundings and stay alert for any potential dangers.

How To Respond if You Are Caught in a River Strainer

Stay Calm

If you get caught in a strainer, remain calm. Panicking will only make it harder for you to free yourself. Try to scissor kick and grab ahold of the strainer to keep yourself from going under.

Use Your Equipment

If no one nearby can assist, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary safety equipment on you, such as a life jacket and a VHF radio to try and get help.

Conclusion

By following these tips, boaters and swimmers should be able to avoid any dangerous situations while still enjoying their time outdoors on waterways. Remember that safety always comes first when navigating rivers or other bodies of water. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can enjoy your water adventures safely and securely while avoiding the dangers of a river strainer.