[rhombocombus]

That said, it's a river. You don't get to choose when bad luck hits. I have been a paddler for most of my life, and I have paddled over flatwater sections that have killed people just as handily as if they were a waterfall or a class VI rapid. We go to great lengths to be conscientious and meticulous in our preparation, and most of the time it pays off. I have run whitewater for many years in rafts and kayaks, and seen folks get hurt, but one of the worst injuries I have seen took place in two feet of calm water. I still go out, and I take my family on the river, but I always try to be meticulous in my preparation. That doesn't prevent calamity, but nothing will do that.