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Paddle Craft Safety
Posted by: James Munger, FSO-CS
INTRODUCTION
Kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards (SUPs) and other paddle craft offer great recreation on the water, but you must understand and prepare for the risks. The resources presented here can help you be prepared.
PADDLE CRAFT SAFETY VIDEOS
The United States Coast Guard has partnered with Paddling.com to produce these short videos that illustrate proper gear, equipment, strokes, trip planning, recovering from a capsize and how to call for help.
INSTRUCTION
Our partner, the American Canoe Association, offers extensive training in various paddle sports. Click the link to view training videos and find local instruction.
MARK YOUR PADDLECRAFT
When the Coast Guard, public or law enforcement discovers an unmanned paddlecraft adrift, they have no way of knowing whether it washed off a dock or was separated from its owner during the course of a boating accident. The IF FOUND sticker provides a place for small craft owners to display their name, phone & cell phone numbers. The Coast Guard or law enforcement can use this information to determine whether an emergency exists, and to arrange for return of property to its owner.
For more information on marking your paddlecraft, please visit: https://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=091-26-03&category=mark-your-kayak-
VESSEL SAFEY CHECKS
You can schedule a vessel safety check (VSC) not only for power and sail boats but also for kayaks and other paddlecraft. These inspections address legal requirements for your craft and equipment, as well as recommended equipment and practices. If your craft meets minimum requirements, a VSC Decal is issued indicating that you are in full compliance with federal and state boating laws. If deficiencies are found, they are noted in a written report for you, but no report is sent to federal or state agencies. Most important, this is a good opportunity to discuss your questions about paddlecraft safety.
For more information on a VSC for your paddlecraft, please visit:https://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=091-26-03&category=1328822654
Updated: January 16, 2022