A Paddler’s Guide to Safety has been prepared by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in cooperation with the American Canoe Association. It is designed as a stand-alone course that can precede or supplement on-the-water experience.

This four-hour course covers three major areas of of safety for paddlers.

AREAS INCLUDE:

The need to have and wear a proper life jacket.

The need to be prepared and have proper safety equipment.

The need for general awareness about all aspects of paddling safety, including situational awareness and the need to practice skills.

This is a “seminar” course. Students receive no “credit” or “certification” for completing the course.

Students will be provided a “certificate of completion”, but such a certificate is not evidence of mastery neither of the material nor of paddling skill.

Students are encouraged to obtain subsequent skills training and practice under the guidance of a certified on-the-water instructor.