WHERE IS the best and safest place to cross a river? In the January issue,we discussed tracks, signs, shape, width, depth and hazards downstream. This month we explore further considerations.
RIVERBED
Where you can see the riverbed is even, is the easier place to cross. This will be preferably shingle or sand, although care should be taken with soft, deep shingle or sand which could shift under your feet. Avoid rocks which could shift when they are stood on, trap a foot, or need to be negotiated.
Algae may make surfaces slippery. This will be more likely at the edges or in shallow water. Sometimes, in algae-prone shallow water, the mutual support method could be safer rather than walking alone, even In minor river flows.
It is generally safer not…
