June is the perfect time to get back on the water and refresh those Safe Paddling skills!
Together, we can create safer paddlers and bring more people into the sport we love.
The Smart Start for Safe Paddling online paddling course is brought to you through a partnership between the American Canoe Association, ACA and the U.S. Coast Guard, meets national standards for paddlesports safety education, and is free! For links and all the details, check out our Paddlesports Resources page.
The course and resources can be used to:
- Build awareness of your ship’s offerings—use as a recruitment tool or event
- Promote water safety and environmental stewardship
- Distribute at community events, expos, demo days, or safety campaigns
- Introduce paddlesports in outreach or public education programs
- Encourage life-long learning and safer participation
There are lots of resources to support you too! Smart Start for Safe Paddling Book, Student Workbook and Facilitators Guide may be Purchased. The Free Resources available online include: a 10-15 minute Presentation slides, a 45-60 minute Slide Presentation, an Online Paddling Safety Course approximately 1 hour, and an Infographic. The course is mobile-friendly from start to finish and is designed to work on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. The course is available in both English and Spanish.
Topics included:
- Shopping for paddling equipment
- Securing a boat to your vehicle
- Trip Planning
- Filing a Float Plan
- On-water Group Management
- Waterway Hazard Identification
- Challenging Weather
- Temperature Regulation & Self Care
- Rescue Priorities & Protocol
This would be great training to take before heading to summer camp!