Paddling Guidelines
If a group of paddlers decides to break from the main group, they should do so only after informing everyone else where they are going and where and when they will rendezvous with the group. Individual Jobs Whenever possible, elect an experienced leader before each day's paddling. The leader should keep an eye on the entire group and make decisions regarding the safety of continuing. When paddling in a large group, choose a front (point) boat to set a reasonable pace throughout the day. To make sure no one gets discouraged, assign a strong paddling team to bring up the rear as well. This "sweeper" team can encourage stragglers and slow the front boat down when necessary to keep everyone together. To keep everyone involved, rotate the duties of the point boat, sweepers and group leader (when possible) throughout the trip. Just make sure that the group leader for each day has the experience necessary to make important safety decisions. Communication When skies are clear and the water is calm, feel free to spread out a little from other boats, staying within whistle or hand-signal range for safety's sake. But if conditions take a turn for the worse, tighten up and stay within voice contact as much as possible. Since voice communication can get difficult in high winds (or rough seas), take some time before your trip begins to agree upon a few simple hand or whistle signals that everyone can use to communicate basic messages. If everyone is carrying a whistle, for example, you might decide that one blast means "attention", two blasts means "gather together", and three blasts means "emergency". If hand signals are easier for the group, decide on signals for the same kinds of messages. Help your fellow paddlers stay safe by keeping them informed. Keep your eyes open for obstacles (like fallen or submerged trees, rocks, rapids), and point them out to the rest your group as soon as you spot them. Safety Skills Like basic paddling and camping skills, safety skills should be learned and practiced well before any wilderness trip begins. Basic safety guidelines
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