Sharpening preparation, avoiding accidents, judging the weather — all are relevant topics for all kinds of outdoor recreation. But they're uniquely important this time of year to paddlers ready to launch canoes, kayaks and paddleboards in earnest.
According to the Outdoor Foundation, an advocacy group, 1.3 million people ages 18-24 in the United States canoed in 2017, with nearly 3.7 million more people paddleboarding, rafting or putting in kayaks to tour, run white water or fish.
Yet, there are other statistics, too: There were 138 deaths (and 107 injuries) among U.S. canoeists and kayakers in 2017, the U.S. Coast Guard reported, with many attributed to inexperience or hazardous water conditions. Another 11 people died paddleboarding.
In advance of a presentation this weekend at the Midwest Mountaineering spring expo in Minneapolis, four experienced paddlers offered tips and best practices for staying safe on the water.
Preparing for success
Your preparation is an important piece of having a safe and fun paddling adventure. These preparations, if done right, can set you up for success.
It starts with what you wear. Having a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD) and wearing it on the water at all times is essential. Good PFDs are comfortable.
Another component is clothing: polyester, nylon and wool are good options. Cotton should be avoided. Spring and fall paddlers should look into wet suits or drysuits for better protection. Water temperature is key. Put your hand in the water you want to paddle. If you do not feel comfortable with the idea of swimming in that water, wait until it is warmer.
There are other essentials to carry, too. Regardless of trip length, you should carry a first-aid kit and emergency kit. Remember, cellphones do not work everywhere. Satellite messengers are a good addition to any kit, which is only as good as the person using it. Invest time to grow your skills.