Missouri State Highway Patrol — Water Patrol Division
Introduction
Each year, tens of thousands of visitors frequent the shallow water and gravel bars that make Missouri’s float streams popular recreational locations. Unfortunately, many visitors have not prepared properly and find themselves and their activity in violation of state law. This brochure will provide information related to the lawful use of Missouri’s float streams.
Knowing your “put in” and “take out” points by name, sharing your float plan with a friend or family member, realizing the importance of having an emergency plan including medical considerations, and being aware of the weather are all important aspects to ensuring a safe day on the water.
Life Jackets
Wearing a life jacket is a smart decision. It’s also the law in Missouri. Watercraft operators are required to have an appropriate personal flotation device for each person on board. All lifesaving devices required by state statute shall be United States Coast Guard approved, in serviceable condition, and so placed as to be readily accessible.
The law requires anyone under the age of seven who is on board any watercraft on the waters of this state to wear a personal flotation device approved by the United States Coast Guard.
Safety is important. Wear a life jacket when you are in or around water. Wear it!
Alcohol & Floating
Intoxicated people on the waterways can be a danger to themselves and those around them. Float trips should be fun for everyone. If alcohol is part of your float trip, make smart choices and obey the law.
The use of beer bongs or other drinking devices used to consume alcohol on the rivers of this state is prohibited. No person shall possess or use any large volume alcohol containers which hold more than four gallons of an alcoholic beverage on Missouri’s rivers. (Section 306.109 RSMo)
Any person under the age of 21 years, who has in his or her possession any intoxicating liquor, or who is visibly in an intoxicated condition, or has a detectable blood alcohol content of more than .02 percent would be in violation. (Section 311.325)
Packing a Snack
It can take a lot of energy to navigate a canoe, kayak, or inner tube on your float trip. Packing snacks and beverages to help you refuel is a good idea. Follow these restrictions:
• Glass containers are NOT allowed for beverages.
• Ensure the container is sealed to prevent contents from spilling into the water.
• Affix to the vessel a container or bag to contain your trash.
• Transport all of your trash to a place where materials may be disposed of safely and lawfully.
• Safely secure any glass containers (foodstuffs) to prevent breaking or falling overboard.
Take Your Trash With You
The law directs floaters to contain their trash and dispose of it safely and lawfully. When you’re canoeing or floating, you want to enjoy nature as it should appear — without other people’s trash. Take your trash with you after your float. Don’t litter!
Illegal Drugs
Throughout our state, it is illegal for persons to possess a controlled substance, except as authorized by law. This applies to our waterways as well. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has a zero tolerance approach to illegal drug use. (Section 579.015 RSMo)
Be Courteous
You’re a guest on Missouri’s rivers and streams. As you float along, be conscious of which areas are state owned and which properties are owned by private citizens. Respect these boundaries.
A person is considered trespassing by entering unlawfully upon the real property of another person. Posting may be accomplished by appropriate signage, or by placing identifying purple marks on trees or posts around the affected area.
Safety First!
It is imperative that motorboat operators take responsibility while sharing our float streams with manually powered watercraft and persons swimming or wading. By state law, any person operating a vessel or watercraft must do so in a careful and prudent manner. (Section 306.125 RSMo)
Safety Tips
• Protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen, and wear a hat and sunglasses.
• Wear water shoes. If your canoe/kayak/inner tube capsizes, water shoes will protect your feet.
• Be familiar with the river and its individual characteristics.
• Learn to recognize river hazards such as strainers, dams, boulders, barbed wire, eddies, etc.
• Know your limits and do not attempt a section of river beyond your skill level.
• Do not paddle or attempt to cross rivers in flood stage or after a heavy rain.
• If you capsize, hold onto your craft and move immediately to the upstream side.
• Carry the proper equipment, including dry clothing and a first aid kit.
• Tie all your gear into the boat, but never yourself, children, or pets.
• Stay sober. Alcohol and drugs affect balance, judgment, coordination, and swimming skills.
• Avoid being “too” — too tired, too drunk, too much sun, too far from safety.
• Learn basic water rescue techniques: Reach – Throw – Row – Go for Help.
Contact
Emergency Hotline:1-800-525-5555 or *55 cellular
Water Patrol Division
Missouri State Highway Patrol
1510 East Elm Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Website: www.statepatrol.dps.mo.gov
Email: boatinfo@mshp.dps.mo.gov