Spring Paddling Safety Tips

The snow has melted, the ice is gone, and many people are finding themselves with more free time than planned this spring. Driving through town you’ll likely see a few vehicles with canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards diligently strapped to the roof. All types of paddlers are excited to dip their blades into cold and clear spring waters. Spring paddling, while glorious, brings a matrix of safety concerns. In the last few weeks we’ve seen multiple news stories about paddlers getting into trouble on the water and requiring recuse services. 

Paddling comes in all shapes and sizes. Spring paddling entices winter bound folks out on ice cold water and flooded rivers. Whether you are dusting off your Old Town canoe that hasn’t been off those saw horses for three years or you’re an experienced boater chasing whitewater on spring creeks close to home, here are a few tips to keep yourself safe!

• Dress for the conditions

Paddlers have a classic saying, “we’re all in between swims.” Dress for a swim! Maine’s freshwater temperatures in April are around 40-45 degrees. Folks heading out on rapids need to wear wetsuits. Most paddlers who paddle spring waters invest in a dry suit, thick neoprene booties, and neoprene gloves.

For flatwater paddling dress for cold wind. It often feels colder out on the water.

• Wear a PFD

Non-negotiable. No excuses. Wear a PFD in good condition that fits properly. Whitewater paddlers should wear helmets.

• Essential gear

Place your phone, keys, headlamp, snacks, rain jacket, etc in a waterproof bag. Bring a small backpack or dry bag and clip it to your boat. If you capsize you don’t want those items to float away!

• Use boat floatation 

Rescuing a boat with no flotation on flat water on a beautiful calm day is hard. In less than ideal conditions it is really hard, even for very experienced paddlers. Any boat on moving water should have floatation. Kayaks should have sealed bulkheads, foam inserts, or airbags in the bow and stern. And yes, you should have those on flat water too. A quick google search will give you lots of ideas and options.

• Paddle with a friend

Even in our new social distancing lifestyles you can meet a friend, bring your own boats, and go for a paddle.

• Stay close to shore

The water will be calmer and it will be easier to recover from a capsize.

• Know what to do when things don’t go as planned

Practice your skills. If you have never tried rescuing a capsized boat, make a plan to practice this summer! For whitewater paddlers invest in a swift water rescue course.

• Stay within your skill level

Be honest and real with yourself about what you can handle and want you can’t. There is no shame in shouldering your boat and walking back to your car. 

• Make a float plan

Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back. Stick to your plan or check in if you change it.

•  Breath

Take the time to look around and notice the world wake up from its winter slumber. Places are full of busy beavers, emerging woodchucks, songbirds returning, and fiddleheads are beginning to peak out above the leaves!

Keep these guidelines in mind and enjoy a sunny spring afternoon on the water! 

Interested in learning more about cold water survival? Check out this article from the University of Minnesota.