Cross Current

River crossings can be hazardous misleading. Even a shallow fast flowing body of water can pack enough force to 'skittle' the unwary. If you can not walk at the speed of a stick thrown into the river, or if the river is swift and above knee height, it could be dangerous to cross. If a river is in flood, then wait for it to calm down. Generally, in areas of snow trying to cross the morning before the snow added to the flow of a river. In case of doubt as to whether a river is safe to cross, then find an alternate route.
Here are some methods for water crossings ...

Crossing Alone
1. If possible, river view from the top to identify the shallowest point and softer area of the river as possible, avoiding submerged rocks, blocks, etc. Do not attempt a crossing if large pieces of debris (wood, branches, etc.) are carried downstream.

2. Keep your boots. Wet boots are preferable to damaged ankles or feet. Do not cross wearing long pants, they increase the flow resistance. Press the size and the chest strap on your backpack before crossing - that way you will be able to free themselves quickly if you lose your footing or find yourself in a position where your pack is hung and now. It is also worth recalling that the block has a certain amount of buoyancy and can serve as a flotation device if necessary.

3. In general, the safest area to cross will be a shallow section braided or a straight section between bends in a river. If you imagine the river in the form of the letter "S" then the safest area to cross will be in the middle of the "S" between turns. So if you lose your footing, hopefully the current carry you into the bank on one of the corners. Realize though, that water may be deeper and faster folding sections, so always seek the best "trickle down" section of a river that takes you to a safe and not at risk if you lose your foot.

4. Use a strong pole or stick about five or six feet long and support, placing on the upstream side so that the forces present there in the background. Always keep two points of contact on the river bed at all times and cross diagonally downstream, resisting the current was almost as if a strong wind. Take trace mixing, to feel the bottom. Try not to look down at the flowing water, as this may disturb your equilibrium, look ahead for the best possible route. Resist the temptation to seize Submerged or partially submerged rocks in transit, as this can disrupt your balance.

Crossing part
1. The members of the party's stand front line, each placing their hands behind the back of the person on either side of them and enter the bottom of that persons pack shoulder strap. (Or the clothes, if no block is worn) This will "lock" of the party. If a block does not have quick release buckles on hip belt, hip belt should be left aside and the seized clothing instead.

2. Enter the water parallel to the present, with the strongest of the party in the upstream position, it interrupts the flow to others. Move with the upstream one slightly ahead of the next person downstream and so on up the line. If a party member must stand during the crossing, the remaining members should maintain training and either shrink or the crossing before attempting a rescue if necessary.

Crossed by three groups
Another method of transfer is the "Triangle" of passage. Three members enter the water in the form of a triangle with each member to the inside, arms linked and enter each person on each side of them. The heavier person should
be at the apex with direct water flow and downstream.