POTENTIAL FOR HIGH WATER WARNING 8/31 – 9/1

River conditions may become high  and potentially dangerous or become more dangerous with additional rain or runoff.   This may result in a rapidly rising river and pose additional hazards and increased danger. 

1. An extreme danger is getting swept into fallen trees (strainers), and being pinned there and drowning as well as obvious dangers associated with deep, swift water.
2. We are also concerned with your carry at Swan’s Falls dam.  You should land well above the dam on the right shore to avoid being in the current going over the dam.  (Going down river)
3. With any significant amount of rainfall, I understand the river could rise as much as 5 to 10 feet vertically, covering all low areas, including sandbars.  This is especially true since the watershed is saturated from recent rains.  
4. Be alert and aware of water conditions. Secure your boats to a live tree. 
5. FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN: The river is faster and higher than normal.  This means if you tip over, small children could be swept away from you downstream.  You should be able to swim, have your children wear their PFD, and have a teenager or adult for each small child in your party.  Always be near the child when in or on the water.  
6. We advise all paddlers to remain in contact with Saco Bound to receive updates on river conditions.  You should camp at a commercially run camping area.   River camping is not advised.  If you need help after our business hours or have an emergency contact emergency personnel immediately. Be advised, cell phones may not work.
7. No refunds for early returns due to river conditions or bugs.  

Tips:

• Be alert and aware of changing conditions
• Have a safe exit plan should conditions start to become concerning
  • Before the river floods be ready to quickly get to a safe point of egress from the river
• Know your limitations
  • Do not overestimate your swimming and paddling abilities
  • Water saturated clothing makes swimming more difficult
  • Swift water is powerful do not underestimate the strength of moving water
• Secure your equipment, tie boats to a live tree
• Wear your PFD at all times
• Use extra caution at Swans Falls Dam
  • Understand exactly where you need to land your boat and target a location well upstream
  • DO NOT go beyond the warning cable
• Avoid strainers and obstacles in the river
• Use good judgment 
  • The best tool you have to keep yourself safe is good decision making 
  • Avoid anything that could impair your judgment
• Consider a commercial campground rather than river camping
• Use extreme caution with kids
  • Have a 1:1 ratio of strong swimming adults to kids 
• Have and discuss a safety plan with your group
• Use caution at the Hiram take out, do not go under the Hiram Bridge!