Boating Basics: Specifically for Paddlesports

Paddling down a river can be an enjoyable and safe activity. But, according to statistics, paddlers in small crafts, such as canoes, kayaks, and rafts, are more than twice as likely to drown as those operating other types of vessels.

Paddlers need to consider themselves “boaters.” They must adhere to the same laws as operators of any other type of vessel and should follow the same safety practices.

Preparing for Safety

As a paddler, you can take steps to make sure you come home safely.

• Always wear a life jacket.
• Make sure you have the skills needed to operate a small, unstable craft safely and to reboard the craft from the water. These skills are best learned through hands-on training.
• Never paddle alone. Bring along at least one other boater. Three crafts with two paddlers each is recommended. If unfamiliar with the waterway, be sure to paddle with someone who is knowledgeable about it.
• Never overload the craft. Tie down gear, and distribute weight evenly. Maintain a low center of gravity and three points of contact. Keep your weight centered in the craft. Leaning a shoulder over the edge of the craft can destabilize it enough to cause it to capsize.
• Stay seated. Standing up or moving around in a small craft also can cause it to capsize.
• Leave a float plan with a friend or relative. Map a general route with a timetable when embarking on a long trip.
• Know the weather conditions before you head out. While paddling, watch the weather and stay close to shore. Head for shore if the waves increase.

Safety While Paddling

• Always wear a life jacket. Also wear a helmet when paddling on rapid waters.
• Don’t overload the craft with passengers or gear.
• Fasten down all ropes so that there is no danger of becoming entangled in case you overturn.
• If you capsize, stay at the upstream end of the craft. If carried by the current, float on your back with your feet pointed downstream, keeping your toes up and your feet together. Never try to stand up unless the water is too shallow to swim.
• Be alert to changing weather conditions. Get out of the water before a storm hits.
• Before paddling on a river, make sure you understand the special challenges you may encounter.
  • Consult a map of the river before your trip, and know where any low-head dams are located. Water going over a low-head dam creates a strong recirculating current at the base of the dam, which can trap you against the face of the dam under the water. Always carry your craft around a low-head dam.
  • When approaching rapids, go ashore well upstream and check them out before continuing. In dangerous conditions, carry your craft around rapids.
  • Be alert for strainers, which are river obstructions that allow water to flow through but block vessels and could throw you overboard and damage or trap your craft.