River

Click on the image above to reveal the hazards

Currents

Risk:

Currents pose a danger of being knocked off your feet and swept away. Often currents are hidden under water

Precautions:

Look for visible currents in the water and warning signs along the bank. Be aware that there may be hidden currents
Change in water depth

Risk:

The depth of the water in rivers can be very unpredictable because of the uneven river bed. Depth also changes throughout the year depending on the level of rainfall

Precaution:

Enter the water cautiously to test its depth. Just because it was safe one time, doesn’t mean it will be safe again.
Rocks

Risk:

Rocks can be slippery and cause a trip hazard. Hidden rocks in the water can cause injury and cuts from rocks can become seriously infected if the water is polluted.

Precaution:

Be careful when moving in shallow water and do not jump in when you cannot see what is underneath
Fast flowing water

Risk:

Fast moving water with strong currents moving over rocks can take you away from safety very quickly

Precautions:

Avoid this area if you are swimming or walking. If you are rafting, kayaking, or gorge walking, approach with caution
Cold water

Risk:

River water can be very cold, even in the summer. The effects from jumping into cold water can be fatal

Precautions:

Do not get into water without testing its temperature first. Never jump in.
Rubbish and debris

Risk:

Broken bottles, cans and other debris can cause cuts and injuries

Precautions:

Look for rubbish and debris that may be hidden in the water
Trees

Risk:

Tree roots may destabilise the river bank, making it more likely to collapse if you get near the edge. Tree roots are also a trip hazard

Precautions:

Stay away from the edge
Unstable bank

Risk:

The banks around rivers are often slippery or unstable and can cause you to fall in

Precautions:

Stay away from the edge