Dress for paddling success
Once you have chosen your PFD, wear the correct clothing underneath. Weather conditions can change quickly, and the water temperature may be cold. And, what if it starts to rain? Just wearing a bathing suit is not going to help you.

The experts recommend dressing in layers and bringing a jacket or raincoat. Clothing made of fleece or synthetic fabrics, such as Neoprene, designed to wick away moisture and retain heat, is better suited for paddling than cotton. Once cotton gets wet, it doesn’t insulate at all and robs you of your body heat. Here are some other tips:

• If you paddle in white water, wear a helmet designed for that purpose. And, don’t even attempt to paddle in rapids unless you are an advanced paddler and/or are with a group of trained professionals.
• Bring extra clothing in a waterproof bag—called a dump bag—in case your canoe or kayak tips over. It is important to stay dry because you can succumb to hypothermia on a 50-degree spring day.
• Don’t forget your sunglasses and hat. The glare of the sun off the water can be very intense.
• Never paddle barefoot, no matter how warm the day. Sharp rocks on the bottom of the river can slice up toes and feet if you accidentally tip over.
• Wear shoes that offer protection but that will not weight your feet down. River sandals or old tennis shoes are your best bet. Neoprene booties are popular with the professionals, but an old pair of sneakers works fine.

Go back to school
If putting together a new wardrobe reminds you of going back to school, you are on the right track. Experts recommend taking a class to learn the basics. Just one short lesson can improve your paddling ability, your safety, and enjoyment.

To get special instructions, join a club or tour group. Going over basic canoe strokes and how to get in and out of the canoe can certainly be of benefit. A common mistake beginners make is entering the canoe while it is still on land. Doing that is incredibly unstable. Enter the boat while it is free-flowing in the water.

You also need to learn the correct way to portage your canoe or kayak—carry it across land when you come to an obstacle in the river. If you do not carry it correctly, you could wrench you back.

You can take paddling classes at community colleges, universities, paddling clubs, outdoor outfitters and specialty shops. Books and videotapes on the subject are available as well.

Research your route
Another reason to crack open those books is to learn about the body of water you will be paddling. A guidebook can tell you if the route you are considering features any rapids or dams.

The intensity of a river’s rapids determines its grade, from class 1 to class 6. I would say a beginner should not exceed a class 2. In higher-class rivers, the water can become so turbulent it will hold boats, people and river debris underwater.

Also, watch for downed trees in the water, which might allow the current to pass through but could trap a boat or paddler.

Low-head dams pose a similar hazard. These dams form a recirculating “hole” in the water that is difficult or impossible to swim out of. Paddlers have been caught near dams and had to be rescued. The water is so turbulent that it can break a canoe in half leaving the paddlers in a difficult situation.

Be prepared for anything
After you plan your route, plan what you will pack—drinking water, sun block, a first-aid kit, mosquito repellent, and extra paddle, and a throw rope for rescues. You could also use the rope to tie the boat if you stop to rest.

Canoeists have neglected to use a rope to tie their canoe when they stopped on an island to rest. A big wind came up and blew their canoe away. They ended up spending the night on the island. Then, a big thunderstorm rolled in. Fortunately, they had brought a sleeping bag and tarp, so they stayed relatively dry.

Plan for unexpected events, including thunderstorms. Learn CPR, paddle with a partner, and let people know your plans and route before you go. Most of all, exercise good judgment. The biggest piece of safety equipment you can have is common sense. Never overestimate your skills, or underestimate the power of the water.