Skiers and snowboarders who wish there’s fresh snow each day of the year have more reasons to enjoy warm summer months. Thanks to activities that are as fun-filled and as exciting as gliding down ski vacation destinations. This summer, adventurous guys can simply service their equipment and store them till the next ski season, then be off for some thrill on the rivers.

White water rafting is as exhilarating as snowboarding and it’s perfect for anybody looking for adrenaline pumping activities. It is a fun and great way to explore and enjoy nature regardless of the rafter’s ability. And it’s even more fun when done following simple, easy-to-follow safety rules.

1. Sign up with licensed and professional rafting outfitter. While it is true that most rafting outfitters offer the same service, it is still extremely important that you shop around and carefully select which one to sign up with. Weigh offers and don’t be shy to ask questions. Know how long they have been in the business and get as much information as you can. At the very least, see to it that the outfitter you choose have experienced, licensed and trained guides.

2. Wear life jacket. At all times. Life jackets do not always guarantee your safety, especially when these are not worn properly. Before you hop on to the raft, see to it that you put on your jacket, buckle all its clips, and that it is fitted snug to your body. Be careful not to wear it too tight, otherwise you’d have hard time breathing. Ideally, the life vest should be fitted to make sure you are able to breathe and move without any difficulty and that it won’t easily slip off your head. Request your chosen outfitter to fit your jacket before heading on to your river adventure.

3. Stay safe, wear helmet. You don’t normally ski and snowboard without a helmet, do you? Even professional skiers like the power couple Cody Townsend and Elyse Saugstad wear helmets when hitting the powder on popular ski vacation destinations. Helmets protect the head and helps prevent injuries or trauma in case of accidents.

4. Wear proper clothes. Wear a wetsuit, splash jacket and wet shoes so that you stay comfortable throughout the whitewater rafting adventure. The right outerwear will help you enjoy the thrill ride without feeling cold and chilly. If you don’t have the right outerwear for the water rafting, ask your outfitter if they rent gears. Professional outfitters typically rent gears as part of the rafting package.

5. Hold the paddle properly. The key to safe and fun water rafting depends on your control of the paddle. With that in mind, ask your chosen outfitter to demonstrate and teach you how to hold paddle properly. Take note that paddles are made of hard plastic and can possibly harm you and your group when not handled with care and control.

6. Stay in the boat. Rafters go through bumps and collisions of the boat with rocks from downstream may cause you to fall out of the boat. Guides typically use the command “bump” before you hit the rocks. Lean in with your paddle on the floor of the boat as soon as you hear your guide shout “bump”. After collision, return to your seat and paddle as usual. Do not fear and be careful not to panic in case you fall after a collision. Instead, find your boat and grab it as soon as you can so you don’t float away. In case you can’t find your boat, look for rescue options or the nearest riverbank.

This summer, don’t fret about not being able to ski down icy slopes. You can always have that much needed ski vacation sometime soon; in the meantime, enjoy the thrills of water rafting.