As paddlers, it’s perhaps easier than many other recreational boaters to head out on the water once the ice has receded, says the Canadian Safe Boating Council. Just strap it to your vehicle’s roof rack and away you go. To ensure an outing isn’t spoiled by an emergency on the water, it’s important to take a few extra precautions before heading out.
A good start is to invite a fellow paddler to come along with their canoe or kayak. That way, you have someone readily available to help out if needed.
Reload all your safety equipment on the boat, to make sure everything is in proper working order and that all pieces of powered equipment have fresh batteries.
The weather can change quickly in early spring. Always check the (marine) forecast to be alerted of incoming weather systems. This is also a good time to realistically assess personal paddling skills against potential weather. Don’t be fooled by balmy breezes into dressing in light clothing. The water is still very cold. Either wear or bring along thermal protective clothing that can be layered. A wetsuit or paddling drysuit would be best. That will help slow the onset of hypothermia for anyone who suddenly finds themselves in the water.
A key piece of safety equipment is a marine radio or, where service is reliable, a cell phone to call for assistance. At this time of year, there are fewer boats on the water to spot and help boaters in trouble. Cell phones should be kept in a watertight container to avoid potential water damage. Travellers should tell a reliable person where they are going, when they expect to return and the number to call should theynot return as scheduled.
Paddlers should also be sure to wear a lifejacket. With the number of styles available today, some specifically designed for paddlers, there really is no reason not to wear one.
Finally paddlers should have practice and be skilled enough to quickly reboard a boat both assisted and unassistedr.
For more safe boating tips, visit www.csbc.ca.
