2015 New York Safe Boating - 70

BOATING RELATED ACTIVITES

River Running
River	running	can	provide	extreme	thrills,	but	may	also	
provide	extreme	danger.		In	the	Northeast,	there	are	several	
fatalities among river kayakers and canoeists each year
because they
underestimated
the power of
moving water.
After the snow
melts and the ice
thaws, or after
strong rains, the
rivers swell with
water and the
speed of the
current increases.
Debris is flushed
into the water
as well, causing hazards that normally aren't present. Take a
few safety precautions to ensure that your river running trip
is safe and enjoyable.

water, tuck and reach forward and, with legs straight, push off
of the kayak with your hands as if removing a pair of pants.
Repeat this maneuver until you are comfortable with it. Most
kayaking deaths result from capsizing in cold water. If you
kayak in cold water, wear a wetsuit or drysuit, and a PFD.

Remember that fast water is often cold water, so be
prepared. Always wear a PFD and do not overload your
boat. Know the river before you go on it; walk along the
bank to scout rapids before attempting to run them. Know
where there are possible dangers. Beware of submerged and
overhanging branches (called "strainers"), submerged rocks,
and floating debris. Plan your route, know where the larger
drops are, and if necessary, portage around them.
Never boat alone; a three boat team is best. If you fall in
moving water, stay on the upstream side of the boat if
possible. Don't try to stand-your foot may become trapped
in a rock, and the rushing water could force you under.
Instead, float facing downriver in a sitting position with your
feet up. Use your arms and legs to swim out of the current
and into slower moving water and try to move toward shore.

Kayaking
If your boating goal is to see wildlife in the waters close to
home,	or	just	to	get	a	little	fresh	air	and	exercise	on	a	sunny	
afternoon, the fast-growing sport of kayaking might be for
you. Kayaks can handle the wind and waves on open waters
from rivers to fresh water lakes to the sea coast. Kayaking
can be quiet and serene, or quite challenging. All kayaking
requires proper training and good judgment.

When	paddling,	keep	your	arms	and	elbows	down	and	relaxed	
as much as possible. Keep the paddle shaft close to the deck.
Avoid letting the returning blade get high in the air where the
wind can grab it. Reduce your fatigue by using many muscle
groups-rotate your shoulders and upper body at each stroke.
Keep your eye on the blade as you pull it (pushing with the
off-side hand) through the water. Lean over on the paddle
slightly.

There are kayak symposiums and kayaking schools across
the state. Dealers or local clubs sometimes offer kayaking
instruction,	including	intensive	instruction	from	experts	on	all	
aspects of paddling. Take a beginning whitewater kayaking
course to learn basic boat handling skills. Most paddling skills
are easy to learn, but kayaking requires you to be in good
health and good physical condition-and be able to swim.

While paddling it is recommended that you wear your
PFD. You are required to have a whistle or other efficient
sound producing device. At night you are required to have
a flashlight or lantern to show in sufficient time to prevent
collision. It is also recommended you carry a hand pump
or bailing device and a spare paddle for emergencies. You

Capsizes are relatively uncommon, but all paddlers must
learn how to turn over and get out of the boat (referred to
as	a	"wet	exit").		In	a	pool	or	near	shore	with	a	friend,	enter	
your boat, and turn the boat over. While upside down under
70
http://www.boaterexam.com/paddling/
2015 New York Safe Boating

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2015 New York Safe Boating
