Hello boater! Effective July 17, 2009, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources changed their guidelines for distance learning. Students are now required to spend a minimum amount of time on each course page before proceeding to the certification exam.

Click here to go to the latest version of the Boat Illinois online course—the official boating safety course of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Paddlesports—Canoes, Kayaks, and Rafts

According to statistics, paddlers in small crafts such as canoes, kayaks, and rafts are more than twice as likely to drown as individuals operating other types of vessels.

A paddler prepares for safety by always wear a life jacket (PFD), and by knowing how to swim in a river current. Never paddle alone. Never overload the craft. Maintain a low center of gravity and three points of contact. Keep your weight balanced over the center of the craft.

A paddle trip downriver can include these river hazards such as low-head dams, rapids, and strainers.

If you capsize, float on the upstream side of your craft. Float on your back with your feet and arms extended. Float with your feet pointed downstream to act as a buffer against rocks. Don't fight the current. If the water is cold, take all necessary precautions to avoid hypothermia.