Increase Raft Safety Standards on the Wolf River

This petition is meant to stand as a show of support for increased safety regulations for companies that rent rafts on the Wolf River. In light of the recent tragedy, the time is appropriate to make an official request for increased standards of business operation to prevent future accidents and deaths from happening in the area.

It is understood that whitewater kayaking and commercial rafting ...comes with an inherent risk of injury and sometimes even death. However, when the proper steps are taken initially these risks can be significantly decreased. Taking into consideration the knowledge of experienced and professional rafting and kayaking entities, the following safety regulations need to be implemented:

A) Rafting companies run trips on a scheduled basis each day so that at least one professional and educated guide be with guests throughout the entirety of the run.
B) Hired guides should either be experienced with whitewater paddling and rescue or receive proper training.
C) As it was done in the past, a lifeguard trained in rescue and emergency situations should be stationed near Big Smokey Falls during rafting company business hours.
D) Absolutely Mandatory that every single person rafting on the Wolf River wear a Personal Flotation Device and helmet.

It is the hope of the people signing this petition that you carefully consider and implement these changes to rafting on the Wolf River to benefit the safety of patrons. The signatures represent a commitment to boycott and to not recommend to others rafting companies along the Wolf River that do not uphold these standards or better.

Update #110 years ago
Our family recently spoke with key members of the Wisconsin State Assembly to hopefully gain bipartisan support and draft a bill that will implement simple and effective safety river rafting regulations. Thanks to the tremendous support of Representative Dianne Hesselbein, we will improve the safety of Wisconsin residents who choose to enjoy the natural beauty of this state and save lives. Please stay tuned for more information on how you can help support this noble cause. Thank you very much.
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