Tips

Village Canoe Rental is providing a few tips for your canoe or kayak trip. Look over the page and if you still have questions feel free to email or contact us.

I. Being Prepared and Responsible

1. Be a competent swimmer with the ability to

handle yourself underwater and in moving water.

2. Dress for the water temperature and be prepared to get wet. Wear

layers of clothing which can be added or taken off during the day.

Cold weather and/or cold water can result in hypothermia. Bring

additional dry clothes to change into if paddling during cooler

weather. Clothes should be packed in a waterproof container or a

double trashbag.

3. Use an eyeglass strap for your eyeglasses or sunglasses.

4. Wear shoes! Old gym shoes or shoes with tops

and sides offer the most protection. Avoid

sandals.

5. Bring drinking water in non-breakable

containers. Alcohol should not be taken on the

canoe trip.

6. Use a sun hat on bright warm days. Wearing a wool stocking hat helps

slow heat loss from you body on cool, wet days. Take along a windbreaker

or rain gear.

7. Take necessary allergy or other medications with you on the river. In case

of mishap, it could be several hours before help arrives in inaccessible

locations.

8. Paddling is a physical exercise. Consult your physician

prior to undertaking any program of physical exercise.

9. Get plenty of rest prior to your outing. Wear comfortable clothing that will keep you warm if you get wet. Eat a good meal before leaving on your trip. Drink plenty of fresh water while on the river to prevent dehydration.

10. Take food and snacks along in a waterproof container which can be

fastened to the boat. Remember, all items not fastened in the boat are at

risk of getting lost and/or wet. No styrofoam coolers or glass containers

please.

11. Use sun screen even on cloudy days.

12. Wear only waterproof watches.

13. Optional items to bring include: fishing gear, a bailer or sponge to remove

excess water from the boat, insect repellent, knee pads (for kneeling in

boat), first aid kit, whistle or other signaling device for use in

emergencies.

II. Trip Preparation:

1. Be certain to wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all

times when on and around the water. These will be distributed at the

Livery.

Check your PFD for proper, snug fit prior to leaving the livery. Do not

accept a device if it is torn or if buckles or fasteners are not functioning

properly.

2. Review the river map. Know where your

float trip will take you, where to get out, and

emergency routes in case of mishap. Make

sure you understand how to identify and avoid

any hazards marked on the map.

3. Choose a paddle of proper size.

4. Take a litter bag with you and use it.

5. Be sure your boat is in good repair before starting a trip. Do not overload or improperly load the boat. This can lead to unexpected capsize. Steady the boat for your partner while loading and unloading.

III. While On The River:

1. It is recommended that you leave your PFD on at all times, even when

swimming.

2. Keep your craft under control. Control must be good

enough at all times to stop or reach shore. Know your

boating ability. Do not enter an area of fast current

unless you feel sure you can safely paddle through.

3. Respect anglers. Paddle to the shore opposite of their

lines and pass by quietly.

4. When paddling in a group, assign a boat to lead and a sweep boat to paddle

in the rear. Both the lead and sweep positions should be held by

experienced paddlers with knowledge of the river being traveled. Never

get ahead of the assigned lead or behind the assigned sweep boat.

5. Do not paddle in flood conditions. During periods of heavy rain, the river levels can rise quickly. Recognize when the water level and current speed exceed your abilities.

6. Be sure to keep an appropriate distance between canoes. Distance will

vary depending on water conditions. A good rule of thumb is to keep the

boat behind you within view. If they lag behind, pull over and wait.

7. Keep a lookout for river hazards and avoid them. Walk around any hazard

about which you have doubts.

8. Never dive headfirst into the water.

9. Respect private property. Please do not trespass.

10. It is recommended that you do not paddle alone. Bring your friends!