Reducing the Risk of Capsizing, Swamping, or Falling Overboard

To help prevent and prepare for capsizing, swamping, or falling overboard:

• Ask everyone in the paddlecraft to wear a life jacket at all times.
• Don’t overload your paddlecraft.
• Balance the weight of all passengers and gear. Keep most of the weight low.
• In a boat, keep your body centered with your center of gravity low.
• Don’t allow people to stand up or move around while underway. If you must move, keep three points of contact with your hands and feet.
• Don’t go out in rough water or bad weather.