Canoeing Tips!
Canoeing is a great sport, for the pros AND for beginners! But, it can get a bit tricky at times. Don't over estimate either your health or your skills when canoeing, be prepared, watch the weather. The tips below are just common sense, no matter what your skill level.
I. Being Prepared and Responsible:
1. Be a competent swimmer with the ability to handle yourself underwater and in moving water.
2. Dress for the water temperature and be prepared to get wet. Wear layers of clothing which can be added or taken off during the day. Cold weather and/or cold water can result in hypothermia. Bring additional dry clothes to change into if paddling during cooler weather. Clothes should be packed in a waterproof container or a double trashbag.
3. Use an eyeglass strap for your eyeglasses or sunglasses.
4. Wear shoes! Old gym shoes or shoes with tops and sides offer the most protection. Avoid sandals.
5. Bring drinking water in non-breakable containers. Alcohol should be avoided on a canoe trip.
6. Use a sun hat on bright warm days. Wearing a wool stocking hat helps slow heat loss from you body on cool, wet days. Take along a windbreaker or rain gear.
7. Take necessary allergy or other medications with you on the river. In case of mishap, it could be several hours before help arrives in inaccessible locations.
8. Paddling is a physical exercise. Consult your physician prior to undertaking any program of physical exercise.
9. Get plenty of rest prior to your outing. Wear comfortable clothing that will keep you warm if you get wet. Eat a good meal before leaving on your trip. Drink plenty of fresh water while on the river to prevent dehydration.
10. Take food and snacks along in a waterproof container which can be fastened to the boat. Remember, all items not fastened in the boat are at risk of getting lost and/or wet. No styrofoam coolers or glass containers please.
11. Use sun screen even on cloudy days.
12. Wear only waterproof watches.
13. Optional items to bring include: fishing gear, a bailer or sponge to remove excess water from the boat, insect repellent, knee pads (for kneeling in boat), first aid kit, whistle or other signaling device for use in emergencies.
II. Trip Preparation:
1. Be certain to wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when on and around the water. Check your PFD for proper, snug fit prior to leaving the livery. Do not accept a device if it is torn or if buckles or fasteners are not functioning properly.
2. Review the river map. Know where your float trip will take you, where to get out, and emergency routes in case of mishap. Make sure you understand how to identify and avoid any hazards marked on the map.
3. Choose a paddle of proper size.
4. Take a litter bag with you and use it.
5. Be sure your boat is in good repair before starting a trip. Do not overload or improperly load the boat. This can lead to unexpected capsize. Steady the boat for your partner while loading and unloading.
III. While On The River:
1. It is recommended that you leave your PFD on at all times, even when swimming.
2. Keep your craft under control. Control must be good enough at all times to stop or reach shore. Know your boating ability. Do not enter an area of fast current unless you feel sure you can safely paddle through
3. Respect anglers. Paddle to the shore opposite of their lines and pass by quietly.
4. When paddling in a group, assign a boat to lead and a sweep boat to paddle in the rear. Both the lead and sweep positions should be held by experienced paddlers with knowledge of the river being traveled. Never get ahead of the assigned lead or behind the assigned sweep boat.
5. Do not paddle in flood conditions. During periods of heavy rain, the river levels
can rise quickly. Recognize when the water level and current speed exceed your abilities.
6. Be sure to keep an appropriate distance between canoes. Distance will vary depending on water conditions. A good rule of thumb is to keep the boat behind you within view. If they lag behind, pull over and wait.
