As an avid paddler and safety enthusiast, I’ve partnered with the American Canoe Association and United States Coast Guard to compile an extensive Paddler’s Safety Checklist.

This checklist, fueled by a grant from the Wallop-Breaux Aquatic Resources Trust, is designed to maximize your safety while you’re out on the water.

Let’s jump right in and help you paddle safely and efficiently.

Ensuring Personal Safety

  • Be a competent swimmer: Mastery of defensive and aggressive swimming techniques can be a lifesaver in a paddling emergency.
  • Always file a float plan: Include your float plan in your routine River Trip Planning, and leave it with a trusted person who’ll notify authorities if you’re overdue.
  • Keep your lifejacket snug: A Personal Flotation Device (PFD) tailored to your specific paddling activity can make all the difference in a dicey situation.

Protecting Yourself

  • Wear a hat or helmet: Whitewater enthusiasts should consider a helmet, possibly with a neoprene hood for cold water. For calm water paddling, a hat is a must for sun protection.
  • Bring a chart, compass, or river map: Stay oriented. Brush up on low-tech navigation before relying on GPS devices that might fail.
  • Carry a whistle or sound-signaling device: Having a whistle tied to your PFD is a simple yet effective safety measure.

Equipping for Emergencies

  • Carry throw bags and other rescue gear: Equip yourself with a Throw Rope Bag and take Swiftwater rescue or river safety clinics to ensure you can use it effectively.
  • Keep a river knife accessible: Whenever lines are being used near boats, have a knife within easy reach.
  • Have a bilge pump or bailer on hand: Open-water paddlers need a method to remove water from their boats.
  • Include self-rescue devices: Depending on your craft, consider paddle floats for sea kayaking or painters and end loops for whitewater rafting.
  • Pack signaling and communications gear: Carry diverse means of communication, including lights, mirrors, and flares. A water-resistant handheld marine VHF radio can significantly enhance safety.

Assembling First Aid and Survival Kits

  • Keep first aid and survival kits: Invest in marine first aid kits or build your own. Personal survival kits can also be beneficial.
  • Duct Tape: Universally useful, the paddler’s best friend.
  • Personal items for protection from the elements: Protect yourself from the elements with items such as sunscreen, drinking water, proper footwear, and UV eye protection/sunglasses with a strap. Use dry bags to keep all your equipment dry.

By following this comprehensive checklist, you can enhance your paddling experience while ensuring your safety on the water. Happy paddling!

You Might Also Want to Read This