INTRODUCTIONS
- Paddle Organizer
- Participants
LIABILITY
- You have all signed the FMCBC Liability Waiver releasing KCKC and its agents in exchange for the “opportunity to participate”.
ITINERARY
- Put in / take out
- Intended route
- Bail out options
RISK ASSESSMENT
- What worst-case scenario most concerns each of you personally?
- Assess local hazards e.g. Boat traffic
- Assess forecast and observed conditions, i.e. weather, wind
- Assess paddlers:
- Wet exit experience? Roll?
- Rescue skills?
- Adequacy of immersion wear and equipment?
SAFETY DISCUSSION
- Are each of you comfortable that we can manage these risks as a group?
- In case of a capsize:
- The nearest paddler should be first to assist, if they have the skills
- Next nearest then assists
- Remainder of the group immediately rafts up
- Be willing to accept being towed if it is beneficial to group progress or safety
EQUIPMENT CHECK
- Who has first aid or repair kits?
- Is everyone wearing proper immersion wear?
- Check relief zippers/hatch covers/life jackets/spray-skirt grab loops
GROUP COMMUNICATION
| METHOD | SIGNAL | MEANING |
| WHISTLE | 1 Blast | Attention |
| Multiple Blasts | Help !!! | |
| PADDLE SIGNALS | Vertical Static | Come To Me |
| 45° angle | Preferred Route – Go That Way | |
| Horizontal | Stop! Hold Position | |
| Waving arms/paddle | Help !!! | |
| See the Paddle Signals page | ||
| HAND SIGNALS | Pat on top of head (question) | Are You Okay? |
| Pat on top of head (response) | Yes, I’m Okay |
GROUP EXPECTATIONS
- Stay together – What does that mean for today? (e.g. distance, earshot)
- Remember CLAP – Communication, Line of Sight, Awareness, Positioning
Speak up if you have any safety or comfort concerns.