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Kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding continue to be among the fastest growing recreational activities in the United States.  Kayaking and paddle boarding is growing faster than any other outdoor activity on land or water.  As a result of their popularity, this growth trend as resulted in a regrettable number of fatalities and accidents on the nation’s waterways. 

Since its inception, the US Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary have been working to improve paddle sport safety.  This optional workshop will prepare the Vessel Examiner to gain paddle craft operators’ confidence and learn the terminology/practices and equipment that are specific to paddlers in the area.  Most important, examiners should assess the risks for the paddler and suggest safe waters for the paddler.  Also, recommend useful equipment, clothing and discuss safety tips.

The majority of paddle craft and SUPs are purchased from local sporting goods stores or large box stores.  Sale representatives lack the paddle craft safety knowledge plus they don’t know what safety equipment to recommend.

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable paddling experience the 8th Western Rivers District is promoting “Operation Paddle Smart” for 2021.  The Vessel Examiner should visit popular kayak launch sites (parks, beaches) rental agencies and paddle clubs.  Coordinate your activities with the Program Visitor officer when visiting rental agencies.  The following sections will help the examiner complete a successful VSC using the ANSC #7012A.  Surveys and statistics indicate most paddlers have limited educational knowledge for operating kayaks, canoes and stand up paddleboards (SUPs).  Auxiliary paddle craft educational training will reduce fatalities and accidents.

PADDLING SAFETY AND INCIDENTS

Introduction

With 23 million Americans participating in paddling activities each year, there are an unfortunate number of paddling-related accidents, injuries and fatalities. The United States Coast Guard reported that paddle sport accidents from 2015 to 2017 resulted in 1,624 accidents and 758 deaths. Paddling activities appear low-risk. However, an alarmingly 29 percent of incidents reported from 2015 to 2017 resulted in a fatality.  Three-quarters of reported incidents occur when the weather is clear. Some accidents are attributed to hazards, alcohol, or weather. Operator inexperience is the leading risk factor. Kayaks/canoes have had fatality increases   over open boats (2012-2017). Paddle board fatalities have over taken kayaks in years 2013, 2015 and 2017 (See chart).  Not wearing life jackets is the major cause for fatalities.

PADDLE CRAFT ACCIDENT CHARTS

Drowning Fatalities as a % of Total Fatalities (by Vessel Type) (special paddling sport Report, 2019 including charts and graphs by ACA)  

LIFE JACKETS MATTER - WEAR IT

Introduction

According to data by the U.S. Coast Guard, 137 people died while participating in paddling activities in 2019.  Of those fatalities, where cause of death was known, 88 percent died inl drowning.  For canoe and kayak fatalities, the age range was between 20-40 years and for paddle boarders it was 30-50.    These adults should have been wearing life jackets.

Wearing life jackets is the simplest way to prevent drowning; however, survey data found that three in 10 paddling participants do not own a flotation device.  What is alarming is that 15 percent of paddlers feel that PFDs are generally unnecessary.  That’s roughly 3.4 million paddlers taking needless risk.

Twenty percent of young adult’s ages 18 to 34 think personal floatation devices are unnecessary. Where cause of death was known, 79 percent of paddler-related fatalities from 2015-2017 were involved in drownings.  Of those victims, an astounding 74 percent were not wearing personal flotation devices.  Between years 2015 thru 2019 wearing life jackets while paddling is decreasing.  The average life jacket wear rate for paddlers is 57% for the last 6 years. (Select states)  Most paddle craft fatalities occur when paddlers are not wearing PFDs.

Life Jacket Wear – Selected States

(Special paddle craft report on graphs 2019 by ACA)

Life Jacket Wear by Vessel Type

PADDLER’S SAFETY CHECKLIST and SAFETY TIPS

Introduction

Some of this information is discussed on form # 7012A.  It is recommended you print the safety checklist & safety tips and use as hand-outs to paddlers.

Kayaks and Canoes Checklist

• USCG approved kayak life jacket*.  Wear bright colors – orange/yellow or red

• Recommend properly fitted  kayak jackets for men, women and children

• Inflatable life jackets* should only be orally or manually inflatable, do not use “automatic”.  Not for children under 16 or non-swimmers

• Whistle* attached to life jacket.  Use a pea-less design

• Know the weather for the day, watch for fog and hazards

• Be a swimmer

• File a float plan. Use the 4Ws: Where are you going, When will you be back, Who to notify and What to do if you don’t return as scheduled

• Know the waters where you will be paddling in and carry maps

• When appropriate, discuss immersion, and understand hypothermia/treatments and what happens in cold water.

• Wear bright colored synthetic clothing – breathable and dries quickly.  Avoid cotton clothing like T shirts and jeans, wear proper foot wear.

• Sunscreen, water & snacks.

• Dry bag with extra clothing.

• Tow lines, small kayak anchor, knife , bailer or sponges.

• Attach a lasher to the paddle and the kayak.

• Night white light/signal mirror/flares/small repair kit w/duct tape.

• Cell phone & VHF hand  held radio w/ GPS locator in a Ziploc bag.

• Stay close to shore, watch for tides and currents.

• Paddle in groups and know your limits. Always assess the risk.

• Take a paddling class from: American Canoe Association, US Coast Guard Auxiliary.

• Know all the legal requirements for federal, state and local areas.

• Spare paddle and cord attached to your paddle.

Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs) Checklist

• Paddlers must have a life jacket* aboard and recommend wearing it.  Manual (no automatic type) inflatable life jacket* or waist type are commonly used. The waist type inflatable PFD must be worn on the back side (not front).

• Whistle* attached to a life jacket. Recommend a Pea-less type

• Know when to wear an ankle leash, should be one foot-longer than the board

• Know how to self-rescue and how to tow another board.  Carry a tow line

• Be defensive, stay close to shore, avoid power boats and busy channels

• Know how to swim, wear proper footwear and bright clothing

• Paddle into the wind when starting your trip.

• Paddle in groups and know the weather for the day.

Kayak Fishing Checklist

• Kayak fishing is growing  in popularity for freshwater/saltwater paddlers.

• USCG life jacket* or inflatable fishing vest* automatically inflate upon immersion or manual activation.   It has pockets and straps for supplies & tackle.

• File a float plan - discussed separately.

• Know deep water reentry and carry a flag on vessel.

• Carry an anchor.  Anchor from the bow, not the cockpit.

• Know the weather for the day and watch for rain clouds.

• Expect immersion and carry dry bag with extra clothing.

• Take an empty bottle to relieve yourself.   Mark it with duct tape.

• Use defensive kayaking  practices and use safe distances from vessels.

• See and be seen.  Wear bright colored appeal.

• Know and follow navigation rules.

Learn and Educate

• Educational resources:  www.americanoe.org

• U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary: www.cgaux.org or www.uscgboating.org

• National Safe Boating Council: www.safeboatingcouncil.org

*Requirement for Vessel Safety Check Decal

PADDLE CRAFT SAFETY GEAR and SAFE PRACTICES

Introduction

Paddlers should have proper safety gear and practice safe practices when paddling.  Educating paddlers about the necessary safety equipment should become the primary concern to vessel examiners.  Many paddlers will not accept the invitation to a Vessel Safety Check; however, they do appreciate getting the free materials such as: “Be Smart, Be Safe Have Fun” pamphlet, “Reflector Kit”, and the orange decal “If Found-Contact” decal (use duck - tape to secure).  This safety material will open the dialogue between the VE and the paddler.   This is the perfect opportunity to discuss safety gear and other safety tips.  See “paddlers check list and safety tips” for more information.

Be Smart, Be Safe Have Fun pamphlet: ANSC  #3004A

This color bi-fold is excellent!  It lists safety gear and essentials, safety tips, life jacket information, and changing weather conditions.  It is a beginner’s guide to safe paddling.  This pamphlet was published because the trend was showing that paddle sports accidents and deaths were increasing while powerboating statistics were decreasing.

If Found (contact decal):  ANSC #3004

When an unoccupied kayak is found, the Coast Guard or other state authorities often can’t be immediately certain if they have a search and rescue for a missing person or if the vessel drifted off.  This decal is very popular with paddlers

Paddle Reflector Kit:  ANSC #3004B

This kit has four round reflector decals.  You apply to both sides of the paddle blades. This increases visibility for the paddler.  Allow 48 hours for adhesive to cure.

Most common gear: Tow lines, first Aid kit, paddle leash, knife, helmet, lights, sunscreen & water, phone in zip lock bag, sponge and air horn or whistle.

Safe practices:  Fill out float plan, check weather, asses the risks and wear a life jacket with an attached whistle.

VESSEL SAFETY CHECK for RENTAL AGENCIES (LIVERIES)

Introduction

For those Vessel Examiners who plan to conduct VSCs at locations which rent Paddle Craft vessels and paddle boards (SUPs), we suggest you take a few minutes to review Chapter 5 (Paddle Craft) in the VSC Manual (COMDTINST M6796.8A) before heading out.  Take the time to emphasize the importance for Paddle Craft Safety. Also, that all renters should always wear their life jackets. Ensure the rental agency provide their customers the necessary safety information which includes local hazards.   Paddle craft rental liveries, by nature, attract Novice paddlers; therefore, we should ensure every person returns safely.  This is one of the key reasons we are promoting “Operation Paddle Smart” by offering the Vessel Safety Check program in our campaign to reduce accidents and fatalities.

Additional Tips

• You are dealing with a local business and are representing the Coast Guard.  Please act accordingly and wear the proper uniform w/hat

• Examine each vessel closely. Check for cracks in hull and paddle.  Checkbungee cords or fittings that might need repair or replacement

• It’s recommended you call the owner first and schedule an appointment – explain the VSC program and decal represents safety for the renter.  For large rental agencies have two Vessel examiners.

• If holes are patched with duct tape, the vessel will not qualify for a decal.

• Each life jacket must be examined individually for wear, tears, missing hardware and broken zippers.

• Are there enough life Jackets, in different sizes for each vessel.

• It’s recommended a whistle be attached to each life jacket.

• Each renter must have a whistle aboard the vessel.

• Complete a 7012 A for each vessel. VSC decals should be placed on vessel as described in the VSC manual.  Check with owner for decal placement.

• Send a formal Thank You Letter thanking the business owner for participating in the safety check program.  This will help you being invited back next year.

SAFETY VIDEOS FOR PADDLERS

Introduction

Videos are great - use as a self-educating tools.  Many VEs can experience an improved learning process by watching these videos.  The videos listed are from three agencies:  Coast Guard Auxiliary, American Canoe Association (ACA) and Dr. Don Goff. USCGAUX.  There are many topics that include: completing a VSC on paddle board, life jackets and inflatable jackets for paddlers and safety tips for kayakers/canoes and paddle boards (SUPs).  Use the “hyperlinks”.