Training: River crossings

Submitted by debbie.hogan on Tue, 25.02.2020
Leader
Leader: 
Debbie Hogan & Peter Waworis
Trip
Date Start: 
Sat, 29.02.2020
Destination: 
Training: River crossings
Status: 
Programme
Private: 
No
Duration: 
1d
Description: 

After a little bit of RAIN, the reserve closures have been lifted. Peter Waroris & Debbie are therefore running the River crossing Training this Saturday before it gets too cold.

Meet at Richmond at 12.30pm to car pool.

Our training will be carried out at the confluence of the Lee and Wairoa rivers and as the rivers are running low at the moment the conditions are fairly benign. We will be looking at practicing the following:

  • Introduction and site selection - The WHEN & WHY.
  • The HOW - Using the Mutual Support Method to cross the river (with packs and using the clothing grasp), also the Solo method of crossing.
  • Turning back or retreating (including backing out of the river or completing a Caterpillar Turn)  
  • Pack Float.   

We will have a few adult sized life jackets available for those of you who require the extra reassurance they provide. You can sit out anything that makes your feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Please ensure you bring the following:

  • We will end up standing around for a while whilst you are wet so either wear or bring a set of polypro/wool top and leggings so you don't get too cold (or a wet suit top if you know you get very cold).
  • Pack Floating is optional but its still important to ensure that your pack acts as a floatation device. A 40-60lt pack is ideal for training purposes, a small day/weekend pack ISN'T. Use several large, new rubbish bags, a new pack liner or large dry bag/s to keep the contents of your pack dry and give you the buoyancy required to pack float.
  • Bring a Leki pole if you use one for practicing the Solo crossing method.
  • Bring a towel and a change of clothes.
  • Chocolate or other snack to keep the energy up.

Please view and read the contents of the following links on our new website prior to Saturday afternoon so you are familiar with the river feature terminology and techniques we will be using.

We are looking for volunteers to help with the training. If you have experience in river crossings, we would appreciate your help.

Grading
Grade: 
E
Scale determination: 
Manual
Cost
Sealed: 
22 km