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Paddlecraft Info

"A Paddler's Guide to Safety"

REDUCE YOUR RISKS!

Paddle sports like canoeing and kayaking are the fastest growing segment of recreational boating. Now, there is a course available to address the unique needs of this audience.

Introduction:
Kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and other paddle craft provide excellent recreation on the water, but it’s essential to understand and prepare for the risks involved. The resources provided here can help you be better prepared.

Instruction:
The course, " A PADDLER'S GUIDE TO SAFETY", provides understanding of equipment, legal requirements, what to do in emergencies, and more. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary developed the course in cooperation with the American Canoe Association. This is an onshore-only class, taught by U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Our partner, the American Canoe Association, offers extensive training in various paddle sports. Click the link http://www.americancanoe.org/page/Courses to view training videos and find local instruction.

ACA logo

Vessel Safety Checks:
You can schedule a vessel safety check (VSC) for kayaks and other paddlecraft. These inspections address legal requirements for your craft, safety equipment, and recommended safe practices. If your craft meets the minimum requirements, a VSC Decal is issued to indicate that you are in full compliance with federal and state boating laws. Most importantly, this is a good opportunity to discuss your questions about paddlecraft safety

Location/Contact Information:
If you live in or near the Greater Rochester, New York area, Flotilla 42 offers safety courses for paddle sports enthusiasts.

  Location:
      USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 4-2
      658 Bay Front S.
      Rochester, NY 14609

If you have any questions about Paddle Sports safety or training, contact the following the lead Flotilla Paddle Sports Instructor :

    Sue Lander,  [email protected]

Paddle Responsibly

If Found - Contact:
When the Coast Guard finds an unmanned paddlecraft adrift, they cannot tell whether it washed off a dock or became separated from its owner during a boating accident. The IF FOUND sticker provides a space for small craft owners to list their name, phone number, and cell number. The Coast Guard can use this information to determine if an emergency exists and arrange for the property's return to its owner.

If-Found

Join Us!

If you're an experienced paddler looking to promote paddlecraft safety, we have a spot for you in the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Reach out to us today to discuss how you can get involved

 

Paddle Craft Links

Part of the satisfaction and enjoyment of paddle sports is the learning experience. The more you know, the better you become, and the safer you'll be. Here are a few websites that can help you learn more about paddle sports. If you have a favorite, non-commercial site, please let us know, and we'll review it for consideration to add here..


Paddlecraft Class Finder
Public Education Classes are offered nationwide by our various flotillas in two modalities, virtual, and classroom. The paddlecraft course name is: "PADDLER'S GUIDE to SAFETY". Just follow follow the directions to find out if there any classes in your area. If not, contact the person above. To get to the Class Finder, Click Here!


Paddle Responsibly 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. To view these videos, Click Here!


Rules of the Road, What Paddlers Need to Know
Paddlers should be aware of a few “Rules of the Road” when sharing resources with other marine traffic. Importantly, keep a proper lookout, and remember to be courteous to other boaters and law enforcement officers. They’re there to help you to be safe and have fun. To download a copy of this brochure, Click Here!


Cold Water Safety
You may not be planning for a swim, but you should always be aware of the water temperature and dress for immersion when you go paddling.  To gain some knowledge about Cold Water Safety, Click Here!

Paddle Craft Documents

Paddler's Safety Checklist
Paddlers should be aware of making sure that they have all necessary equipment to be safe when ventureing out on a paddling venture, be it a paddle around a pond or a paddle for several miles. To download a copy of this document, Click Here!


AUXPAD COMDTINST 16794.11A 08AUG2018
The primary mission of the AUXPAD program is to increase boating safety outreach, promote life jacket wear, and promote compliance with Coast Guard-required safety equipment within the paddle craft community. To download a copy of this document, Click Here!