Canoe-Kayak-SUP-Raft-Rescue BE SAFE ON THE WATER: The American Canoe Association (ACA) is a BASIC SAFETY PRACTICES member-based nonprofit organization 501(c)(3) that promotes fun and responsible canoeing, kayaking, Best Practices stand up paddleboarding and rafting. Founded Being safe on the water always starts with in 1880, the ACA actively advocates recreational wearing your lifejacket (PFD). In addition, please access and stewardship of America’s water trails. For for Paddlers consider the following advice: more information and to become a member, visit Recognize that federal regulations restrict www.americancanoe.org. and paddling near military vessels and installations, Contact the ACA: and that there may be restrictions near bridge Phone: (540) 907-4460 Paddlesport pilings and other areas. Fax: (888) 229-3792 Never boat under the influence of alcohol. [email protected] Programs Do not stand up in a canoe or kayak and avoid www.americancanoe.org weight shifts that may cause capsize. Whenever Making the world a better place to paddle! Since 1880. possible, keep points of contact with the boat when moving. PADDLE RESPONSIBLY Avoid paddling alone. Beyond safety, paddlers should act responsibly on and off the water. Poor behavior by some paddlers Know your skill level and avoid weather or water can adversely impact others through increased regu- conditions that exceed your skill. lation and fees, limitations on access, conflicts with Constantly scan for potential hazards and other user groups, and damage to the environment. changing weather conditions. • Know and obey all rules and regulations. Pay attention to signs and safety warnings. • Never use private property without permission. Set a reasonable pace so everyone can stay together. • Be courteous and polite when communicating. Avoid having loose rope in, or dangling from, your • Don’t interfere with recreational activities of boat. It can rapidly become an entrapment hazard. others. Never tie anyone in, or to, the craft. • Never engage in lewd or inappropriate behavior. Recognize when others in your group are tired • Avoid paddling near areas of heightened security. or having difficulty and adjust pace. Look out for everyone in your group. • Never litter, and always pack out trash. Designate a “sweep” boat to bring up the rear • Do not disturb wildlife. and make sure you don’t lose stragglers. Communicate effectively on the water. Wind and water sounds can make hearing others difficult. Whistles and hand signals can be useful. Always be prepared for the unexpected flip. Sun and wind can be very dehydrating—make sure you drink plenty of water. Part of ACA’s Paddle Safe - Paddle Smart Series www.americancanoe.org DRESS FOR SUCCESS BE PREPARED Always wear a lifejacket (personal flotation Preparation and knowledge will make a big device—PFD) appropriate for the activity, and difference in the quality of your trip and the dress for protection from sun, heat, rain, and cold. safety of participants. Lifejacket (PFD): • Know waterway characteristics before A properly fitted lifejacket is essential. launching, including distance to destination, water level, current speed, tidal influences Lifejackets should fit snuggly and float you and the presence of hazards such as comfortably. rapids, downed trees, or low-head dams. Inflatable lifejackets should not be used for Guidebooks, resource managers, other whitewater or surf activities. paddlers and the Internet are good Clothing: information sources. Dress in layers using clothing made of synthetic ESSENTIAL GEAR & SUPPLIES • Be aware of weather conditions that might fabrics such as polypropolene, nylon, neoprene affect your trip, including upstream rain and and polyester fleece. snowmelt, fog, wind, or offshore storms. Carry extra clothing during cool or cold- Besides having a properly outfitted boat and a • When planning a trip, consider the paddling weather trips and store it in a waterproof paddle, you will need the following: skills, fitness level, health, and swimming abilities of all participants. container. • Water / Water Bottle: • Assume a conservative pace. Carry a waterproof jacket designed for splash • Sponge or Bilge Pump: and rain protection. • Be able to control and propel your boat. • Dry Bag Dress appropriately for immersion in cold • Make sure you know how to right and re- • Food water. enter your craft in the event of capsize. • Sunscreen: Lightweight, synthetic, long-sleeved shirts and • Plan for emergencies. Always know where pants provide great sun and bug protection. • Insect Repellant you are and how to contact emergency services. Cell phones are unreliable, Headwear: • Whistle or Horn especially in remote areas. Wear a hat with a bill or brim to help shield • Throw Bag or Tow Rope your head and face from the sun. • Inform others (friends, family, resource • First-Aid Kit manager) of your trip plan. Trip plans In cold weather, wear a synthetic hat or • Spare Paddle include: name and address of trip leader, skullcap to prevent heat loss. number in party, route information and Note: Other gear may be needed depending on anticipated time of return. Wear a helmet when playing in whitewater or your specific type of boat and activity, paddling surf to protect your head if you capsize. destination, length of trip, or local rules and • On one-way trips, plan a takeout every shuttle Footwear: regulations. Gear commonly used by paddlers —typically a car placed at destination. Wear secure river shoes or old sneakers to include: spray skirt, extra boat flotation, paddle • Inspect equipment prior to trip. protect your feet from sharp rocks. Be careful floats, compass, map, nautical charts, carabiners, • Load your craft properly. An unbalanced to avoid shoelaces catching in or on the boat. flares, two-way radio, portage yoke, knee pads, craft is difficult to handle or keep upright. Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and lights. In cold weather/water, wear neoprene booties Keep weight low and centered. or socks. State and Federal laws set specific requirements • Know basic first aid, CPR (cardio-pulmonary for some waterways. Make sure you know how to resuscitation), and be able to recognize use the equipment you bring. symptoms of hypothermia and heat illness..