Every summer thousands of families take float trips in canoes on Missouri’s rivers, lakes and streams. Keeping your family safe on the water means everyone must understand certain risks so they can steer clear of danger and keep dry. Here are some canoe safety tips to ensure and enjoyable float trip with your family.
As you and your family get into your canoes it’s important to have someone hold the canoe steady so it doesn’t tip before you even get out on the water. As you get into the canoe crouch low, keeping your knees bent while grabbing the sides of the canoe to maintain your balance as you make your way to your seat. Always walk along the center of the canoe. Walking along the canoe’s centerline will keep the canoe from rocking.
It’s best to stay low whenever you are in a canoe and always sit on the seats or in the center so you won’t cause the canoe to tip over. Avoid standing or walking in the canoe when you are away from shore. Everyone in a canoe should always wear a life jacket since no one can predict when you might fall out or tip over unexpectedly. Sudden or jerky movements can cause a canoe to rock from side to side. Staying still and moving slowly is best.
When it comes to currents in the water, canoeing requires constant vigilance. Be on the look-out for currents that pull you along faster or further downstream you had planned. If you see lots of rocks in the water ahead it’s time to paddle toward the shore. You should also paddle away from low hanging trees and branches near the shore. Inevitably you’ll encounter speed boats that cause big waves. Keep your canoe at a right angle to these waves, approaching them head on with the canoe’s bow to prevent your canoe from getting pushed over. If you hear thunder or see lighting, it’s time to head for shore and seek shelter. Don’t canoe in bad weather.
Now that you’ve prepared your family for what to do to avoid tipping their canoes, it’s time to prepare them for what to do if and when their canoe does tip over. First, don’t panic. Second, it’s important to stay with the canoe. Even full of water or upside down it will still float and at this point it’s still the best means for arriving at your destination. Paddle or push the canoe to shore so you can get out in shallow water and flip the canoe to rid any water inside. This is why it’s important to bring a waterproof bag or container with a change of clothes. Whether your canoe tips over or the weather changes, being prepared with extra clothing is essential.
Remember canoes don’t provide shade so be sure to bring hats, sunscreen, long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Bring a first aid kit, plenty of food and water to stay hydrated, life vests and a map so you know where you are going and don’t get lost. Before you push away from the shore, tie all your equipment to the canoe on one of the center beams. This way you won’t lose everything if your canoe tips over. And don’t leave anything behind like trash. You wouldn’t want animals to litter in your house and they certainly don’t like a messy home either.
Learning these important safety tips better prepares you and your family for a safe and enjoyable float trip along Missouri’s rivers, lakes and streams. Grab your paddles and life jackets and have fun!
