A Course for Safe Boating

Chapter 3 u Vessel Operation

Scouting ƒ ƒ Pull over to the side of the river a safe distance upstream of the rapid or obstruction that you want to scout. ƒ ƒ Keep your life jacket and helmet on to protect yourself if you slip and fall into the river or onto rocks. ƒ ƒ Carry a throw bag with you. You may need it if a group member falls into the water or you may need it to help other boaters. ƒ ƒ Look at the rapid and mentally chart the best course. Remember where the eddies or safe parts of the river are in case you take an unexpected path through the rapid. Consider actions you would take if you stray from the best course. ƒ ƒ Everyone in the group should be comfortable telling the others that they want to portage around a rapid that is beyond their skill level. The rest of the group should respect the individual’s decision. ƒ ƒ At especially difficult rapids, station rescuers downstream with boats and throw lines to prepare for unscheduled swims. Returning to Shore ƒ ƒ Check the surrounding area at put-in and take-out points so that you don’t leave any equipment or other items behind. Carry out what you carried in. Leave the wilderness cleaner than you found it. ƒ ƒ Check that you are extra careful when entering or exiting the water. Slippery rocks or underwater objects can often cause leg or ankle injuries.

WEBSITE For more information about paddling, visit www.dbw.ca.gov/Paddling

REVIEW QUESTIONS: PADDLING

Answer these questions by circling T for true or F for false. 1. Whitewater paddling is a basic skill that requires no previous experience or instruction . . . . . . . T F 2. You should get out of your boat and scout unfamiliar rapids from the shore . . . . . . . . . . . T F 3. A class V river is a good choice for beginners T F 4. Make sure to wear baggy clothes for whitewater paddling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T F 5. River flows generally remain constant throughout the day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T F 6. A strainer is a significant hazard on the river T F 7. Eddies are dangerous obstacles in a river, and you should avoid them . . . . . . . . . . . . . T F 8. If you fall into a river, you should get into swimmer’s position, floating on your back with your toes up and your feet pointed downstream. T F Turn to page 100 for correct answers. .

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California Boating  A Course for Safe Boating