Always
Pack Out What You Pack In
Be Sure To Recycle and Dispose of Your
Trash Properly
Trash bags are available to
campers and floaters “free-of-charge” from Commercial Flotation Device
Operations, River Rangers and
"Float and swim smart from the start by wearing a personal
flotation device (aka: PFD or Lifejacket) at all times while floating and
swimming".
Other “Autumn-Time” considerations for a safe
float trip:
- Be sure to inform the
commercial flotation device operation if you or anyone in your party are a
first-time or novice floater(s) so that they may pair you with an
experienced paddler/floater or float you in a raft so there is a lesser
chance for capsizing;
- Wear a personal flotation
device at all times;
- Wear appropriate and layered
clothing as temperatures tend to fluctuate in the Fall;
- Never boat alone. Stay within
sight of companions;
- Do not float when river levels
and discharge flows are higher than normal or at flood stage;
- If you capsize, stay with your
flotation device on the upstream side. Resist the urge to grab a fixed
object don't get pinned between the flotation device and a rock or tree;
- If you capsize, try to get out
of the water as soon as possible and dry off. Hypothermia is of major
concern in the fall and winter.
- When tired, take a break on a
gravel bar to relax;
- Be sure to wear river wading
shoes to ensure no cuts to your feet;
- Never take anything on your
float trip that you don't want to lose. Check your car keys with the
commercial flotation device operation for safe keeping;
- Respect the rights of fishermen
and private property owners;
- Camp only in designated areas.
Avoid being trapped by rising water against bluffs or on gravel bars;
- Do not tie flotation devices
together as it against the law and violators are subject to fine;
- Do not use profanity;
- Do not use glass and Styrofoam
containers;
- Do not litter; and,
Pursuant to enactment of Senate Bill 1381 during
the 2nd Session of the 51st
Before planning to visit the Illinois River
Basin, always access 48-Hour Recreational Forecast, Illinois River
Area Map and Floaters Guide before setting out on your floating trip by
going to the Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission Website: www.oklahomascenicrivers.net. The 48-Hour Recreational Forecast
"icon" has the Illinois River Association (commercial flotation
device operations) recommended standards for floating children. The forecast
site has interactive river map that changes colors with elevated river levels
and matrix of recommendations at the certain levels.
Additionally, the OSRC Website contains a host of
other informational items of interest related to Oklahoma Scenic Rivers.
Thank you,
Ed Fite, Administrator
Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission
Office (918) 456-3251
