River-Running Inner Tubes

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[2] Wear old tennis shoes . Even the most secluded creeks have their share of sharp rocks . . . while waters closer to civilization may be littered with broken glass, fishhooks, and rusty cans.

[3] Use life jackets. Everyone should wear a life vest, especially on fast or wide rivers and in rapids ... and, of course, weak swimmers and nonswimmers should never go out on the water without them.

[4] Listen, stop, and look. You'll hear white water before you see it. In unfamiliar streams, pull over at the first such warning, and walk down the bank to get a good look at the river ahead. If it doesn't look like fun, it probably won't be. When in doubt, portage.

[5] Avoid rump bumping. As you float through rapids, lift your bottom by leaning back and straightening your legs. The maneuver will raise your center of gravity and decrease the tube's stability, though, so hold on!

[6] Keep your feet pointed down stream. This technique allows your legs (instead of your head) to absorb the impact if you should happen to collide with rocks or logs.

[7] Use a safety pin to secure your keys inside your pocket. Double Ziploc-type bags make good waterproof pouches for other small items.

[8] Take a friend along . In tubing, as in all water sports, the buddy system makes for happy-and safe-landings.

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