Sustainable Tourism Law

364 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM LAW rocks and medium-sized waves are easily avoided by trained paddlers. Swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed. Rapids that are at the upper end of this difficulty range are designated Class II+. Class III: Intermediate . Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid and which can swamp an open canoe. Complex manoeuvres in fast currents and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large- volume rivers. Scouting is advisable for inexperienced parties. Injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid prolonged swimming. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated Class III- or Class III+ respectively. Class IV : Advanced Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast manoeuvres under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate manoeuvres, scout rapids or rest. Rapids may require “obligatory” moves above dangerous hazards. Scouting may be necessary the first time going down the river. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue procedures is often essential but requires skills that have been practiced previously. For kayakers, a strong roll is highly recommended. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated Class IV- or Class IV+ respectively. Class V: Expert Extremely long, obstructed or very violent rapids which expose a paddler to added risk. Drops may contain large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, demanding a high level of fitness. What eddies exist may be small, turbulent or difficult to reach. At the high end of the scale, several of these factors may be combined. Scouting is recommended but may be difficult. Swimming can be dangerous and rescue procedures are often difficult even for experts. Proper equipment, extensive experience and practiced rescue skills are essential. Class VI: Extreme . Runs of this classification are rarely attempted and often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger. The consequences of errors are severe and rescue may be impossible. For teams of experts only, at favourable water levels, after close personal inspection and taking