Look for a place with good footing on both sides. It must be easy to get in and to get out. Be sure that your perfect exit spot isn’t small, but rather extensive since the current may take you downstream some distance.
Look for stepping stones or river islets that divide the watercourse. These are usually signs of an ideal place to cross.
Once you’ve chosen your crossing place, undress and put your clothing in a backpack, preferably within a plastic bag. Keep your shoes on. You don’t want to injure your feet, and good traction when crossing a river is paramount.
Unhitch your backpack so that it is resting over one shoulder only—the one facing downstream. This may seem counter-intuitive, but the truth is that if you get caught uncontrollably in a strong current, you don’t want your pack to drag you down. Rather, you want to be able to dispose of it immediately.
Find a long, sturdy walking stick. When you cross, you can use this to feel for depth and as a brace against the current.
Slowly but steadily enter the water, crossing at a 45-degree angle into the current.
