Acting Missoula Rural Fire Department Chief Paul Finley says the temptation of adding a few cold beers to a tubing trip down the river may sound attractive, but can slow reaction time and cloud reasoning. Finley is part of the river rescue team and has advice for those who want to beat the heat by floating down area rivers.

Finley says to make good decisions before heading to the water, by having all the safety equipment necessary, such as a life vest, and a throw bag that contains a length of rope to help someone who may have fallen into the water. He is also concerned with debris beneath the surface of the water that may trap a swimmer or floater and lead to a tragedy.

Acting Missoula Rural Fire Chief Paul Finley

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