Read these river trips do's and don'ts then pass them along so everyone is prepared to fully enjoy their great escape.

Fashion should take a back seat to comfort and safety on the river.

Some fashion do's:

• Wear old sneakers, canvas boating shoes or river shoes at all times. The river floor is rocky and shoes will protect you from any sharp edges. Never wear heavy shoes or boots.
• Showers or thunderstorms can come up quickly, so it's always wise to bring along a rain poncho or foul weather gear.
  Shorts, bathing suit, a tee shirt and wind breaker plus sun screens or tanning lotions are basic hot weather gear while cool weather paddling calls for light layers of polypropylene or wool to keep out the chill.
• If the air and water temperatures combined do not equal 100 degrees, you're required to wear a wet suit to prevent hypothermia. We have a limited supply of wet suits, gloves and booties available for rental and these should be reserved prior to trip day.
• If you wear glasses, wear them with straps.
• A fashion footnote: be sure to bring a dry set of clothing and shoes for a post trip change and a comfortable trip home.
• Food! It seems to taste better outside, so plan to bring enough to suit and satisfy outdoor appetites. It's also wise to bring extra sodas or juices and drinking water especially if you're doing an overnight trip. The water quality of the Delaware has been rated "excellent" by the EPA. That means great for everything but... drinking!
• Pack all food and beverages into waterproof coolers with attached lids and be sure to tie coolers and all gear (except life preservers) into your watercraft.
• On the subject of waterproof cases, use them for all valuables and be certain to keep all cameras in waterproof cases or containers. Large zip lock bags work well for non-breakables but they won't protect valuables from bumps or breakage. Perhaps the best idea? Leave valuables at home.
• Make sure your car keys are in a safe place. Some creative river runners bring an extra ignition key and hide it in their car. An extra door and trunk key is carried separately or by a different member of the group.
• Bag all litter and tie your litter bag into your watercraft. Trash in and along the river destroys the view as well as the environment for all those who follow.
• Of fashion, food, and river etiquette, what's the most important thing to bring to the river? It's the ability to swim and the knowledge that any water related activity poses serious hazards and risks to participants. You must understand and use safety measures to stay safe. You'll receive a river and safety orientation prior to your trip. Pay attention during this briefing. If something isn't clear, ask questions now.
• Make sure your life vest fits properly and wear your vest at all times on the river - even when swimming. Don't overestimate your swimming ability. Be aware that there are sudden drop-offs on the river floor.

On the DON'Ts List...

• Alcohol and glass containers are not recommended on the river. The National Park Service will fine, arrest and remove people from the river who are under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Anyone in possession of alcohol under the age of 21 is subject to arrest by the authorities. There are no refunds for people who are removed from the river. Your cooperation is your responsibility.
  

Now, you're ready.

DO have a great time.