7 Water Safety Tips for Canoe Trips
Canoe trips are a fun and memorable way for families to enjoy the great outdoors, but they also come with their share of safety concerns. In the past, we’ve discussed general boating safety… but there’s nothing quite like taking a canoe out on the open water.
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or new to canoeing, keeping your whole family safe should be the top priority. Because of this, let’s take a closer look at a few water safety tips for canoe trips.
1. Always Start With Proper Life Jackets
The most critical piece of safety equipment for canoe trips is a life jacket. Remember to make sure that the life jacket is the correct size and not too loose. If it’s too large, it can slip off in the water. If the floatation device is too tight, it can restrict movement.
It's important that everyone in the canoe, especially children, wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket that fits snugly. Children may want to skip wearing one, but setting a good example as a parent will encourage them to do the same.
For younger children, look for life jackets with additional safety features like a crotch strap to prevent the jacket from riding up or tipping the child forward in the water. Parents should also make sure the jacket has a whistle attached in case of emergencies.
2. Safer Canoe Trips Need the Right Gear
Besides a life jacket, the American Canoe Association recommends several pieces of safety gear. To start, parents should bring along a first aid kit. In case of trouble, it’s important to be ready to deal with even minor injuries like cuts and scrapes. Waterproof bags can also help keep essential items like phones, maps, and snacks dry. Other important gear may include a spare paddle in the event that one breaks or gets lost.
3. Beware and Respect the Water Conditions
Canoeing tends to be thought of as a lighter, more recreational day on the water. But the water should always be respected. Before heading out, check and double-check the water conditions.
Calm, slow-moving waters are ideal for family trips, especially if you have young children or inexperienced paddlers. On the other side, rivers with strong currents or lakes with high winds can make steering and paddling difficult. This will certainly increase the risk of capsizing or running into danger. It's also wise to avoid areas with obstacles, like rocks or tree branches sticking out of the water, as these can be dangerous.
4. Learn Basic Paddling Techniques Before Striking Out on Canoe Trips
Knowing proper paddling techniques are vital for controlling the canoe and avoiding accidents. Make sure both adults and kids understand basic paddling strokes, such as the forward stroke and the backstroke, which help with steering and controlling the canoe’s speed. Teaching kids the importance of working together when paddling can turn the trip into a fun, team-building exercise.
5. Keep an Eye on the Kids
One of the most important water safety tips for any family canoe trip is to keep a close eye on your children. We always emphasize the importance of active supervision when it comes to little ones. Kids often get excited and want to stand up, lean over the edge, or shift around in the canoe. All of these sudden movements can increase the risk of tipping over into the water.
Before anyone gets near the boat, make sure to establish clear safety rules that everyone understands. Even in calm waters, accidents can happen. A bit of pre-planning and education can go a long way.
6. Know What to Do if You Capsize
Capsizing can be a scary experience, but knowing what to do if it happens can prevent panic. First and foremost, stay calm. If the canoe flips, it’s important that everyone stays close to the boat, which can help keep everyone together and floating.
For little ones, it’s important that they know to keep their life jackets on and hold on tightly to the canoe. Adults can attempt to right the canoe by flipping it back over. If righting the boat isn’t possible, the group should swim with the canoe to the nearest shore.
7. Plan Your Route in Advance
Finally, planning your route in advance is crucial for smooth and safer canoe trips. Stick to well-marked routes that are suitable for families, and avoid waters that are known for fast currents or rough conditions. Planning ahead also helps in case of an emergency, as you’ll be aware of the nearest exits or safe spots along the water.
Whether it's your first time or you’re a regular paddler, keeping these water safety tips in mind will help to keep your family out of harm’s way.
