Top 8 Paddling Safety Tips

This weekend is going to be about as close to perfect as they come. Whether you plan on spending 15 minutes paddling on the water or taking a multi-day trip, it is important to remember these safety tips:

• Before heading out, check the weather conditions and water temp. This may be an obvious one, but that makes it easy to overlook. Even if where you are it is sunny and hot with no wind, a launch point 20 minutes away could have a completely different forecast.

• Invest in proper clothing. If you are headed out in scorching sun, plan to bring sunscreen, a lightweight UV blocking layer and a hat.

• Before you head out make sure to tell someone your plan and include an estimated time of return. This could absolutely save your life and ensure a quick response from emergency crews if anything were to happen.

• Review self-rescue techniques. Practice safe rescues in warm shallow water with a fellow paddler. Check out this quick video on how to re-enter a sit-on-top kayak:

• Before you begin practicing your self-rescue techniques is good time to make sure you have the appropriate safety devices (life vests, etc.) and that they are in good, working condition.

• STAY HYDRATED! Bring enough water and snacks for the entire day.

• Research the area that you are planning on paddling before you go. Have you read our last post? Check it out by clicking here!

• Boating rules – many bodies of water have similar rules. If you are paddling out on the ocean or on a larger body of water, there is a chance that you may encounter much larger watercrafts. Be prepared by knowing the rules of of the water. Be aware, see and be seen, and know your rights of passage!

Hope you have a great time out on the water!

_Little Fish_