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65
THE EXTRA STUFF ISN'T EXTRA
Look at the Packing List I've provided and don't go to the river without it
in your boat. I always pack a dry bag with these items. Montana can dish out
a severe weather change in 30 minutes. You might have started the day at 11
a.m. in 75-degree weather. Two hours later it could be 40 degrees and drop-
ping. e contents of your dry bag will prepare you.
With today's cell phones and weather reports available in seconds, always
check the weather before you go.
PACKING LIST FOR THE BOAT
o The 20-30 liter dry bag should be secured to the boat.
o Extra clothing with full change of clothes for worst possible weather.
o Synthetic not cotton.
o Rain jacket
o Matches or lighter
o Headlamp
o Food—whatever you want plus some high calorie energy bars
o Water—for a full day out, a simple water filter is handy
o Sunscreen
o First aid kit
o Leatherman type multi-tool to fix a lot of problems
o Duct tape, small roll is fine
PEOPLE OFTEN OVER-RATE THEIR ABILITIES
OR UNDER-RATE THE RIVER'S FORCES.
Interview with Mike
about river safety
www.distinctlymontana.com/safety192
DISTINCTLY MONTANA | DIGITAL
ATTACHED TO THE BOAT
o Throw rope
o Spare paddle or oar
o 2 or more carabiners
o Repair kit specific to your boat
GEAR FOR YOUR BODY
o Life vest ( PFD ) with a whistle
o Easy access knife
o River ready footwear—
not flip flops
o Good sun hat
o Helmet—if needed for
that piece of river
o Proper attire for the day
PLANN
I
NG
AND
PR
E
P
AR
ATI
ON
CONTINUED
