Paddlesports Safety Course

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Paddlesports America Safety Course

The Ohio River Trail Council Youth Program sponsors the "United States Coast Guard (USCG) Auxiliary Paddlesports America Safety Course." The presentations are held at the Community College of Beaver County, Monaca, Pa and provided by a USCG Auxiliary Instructor. Paddlesports America is an exciting safety course designed to attract the novice and experienced paddle enthusiasts. Please check the calendar for the next event.

Topics included understanding paddlecraft characteristics such as:

hull shapes hull materials, lengths and widths and weights
paddle types and lengths for both canoe and kayak
paddlecraft capacity; loading gear in a canoe or kayak; dressing for a safe trip
transporting your paddlecraft safely; securing the paddlecraft
conducting a pre-departure check; how to file a float plan
knowing the responsibilities when paddling with others and sharing the waterways
how to enter and exit a canoe or kayak safely
understanding the U. S. Aids to Navigation System (ATONS)
identifying local hazards on waterways
completing vessel registration; hull identification numbers and who may operate a paddlecraft
unlawful operation of paddlecraft
homeland security restrictions
policies on alcohol and drugs
life jackets or personal floatation device
navigation lights; sound-producing devices and visual distress signals
protection of the river environment
proper procedures following a boating accident
how to minimize the risk of drowning, capsizing, swamping or falling overboard
how to deal with cold water immersion and hypothermia
understanding heat related illness; dehydration
handling weather emergencies
paddlecraft vessel safety check list