Some of us look at fast moving water and shiver. Others practically explode with adrenaline. Before embarking on a boating trip on high waters during the melt off this spring, be sure to play it safe.Anyone who's ever fallen out of a raft or kayak in rough water knows how useless a human being is versus a creek or river, especially in the Colorado Rockies, where snow continues to melt throughout the summer and water rages after rainstorms.Rafting and kayaking are two of the most exciting adventures you can find in the Eagle Valley this time of year and you should definitely indulge all you can while the water is ... well, not fit for swimming, but definitely prime for floating. Before you prime your paddle, here are a few rules of thumb:- If you're not experienced, don't go on your own, especially in inflatable rafts, kayaks or tubes. In late July, there are a couple places on Gore Creek and the Eagle River where this is possible, but certainly not in the spring, when the water is high and fast. The Vail area is home to several boating outfitters, all of which offer guided trips and lessons. Here are a few to explore:* Timberline Tours in Minturn: 800-831-1414; timberlinetours.com.* Lakota Guides in Avon: 970-845-RAFT; www.lakotariver.com.* Alpine Kayak in Vail and Avon; 970-949-3350; www.alpinekayak.com* Colorado River Center in Bond; 970-653-0263; www.coloradorivercenter.com- For the love of God, wear a life preserver and helmet, not to mention a wet suit and appropriate layers, wool in cool weather. You're in the mountains. The water comes from snow. It's not warm.- Learn to swim.- Don't overload the raft or kayak.- Make sure someone in your crew knows First Aid.- If kayaking, be sure you know how to roll or do a wet exit.- Check water levels before you go. They can be found at http://www.dwr.state.co.us/SurfaceWater/default.aspxBy Shauna Farnell
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