1. You do not need to be able to swim vast distances but the ability to remain confident in the water is vital. All canoeists should be able to swim 50 meters.

2. Always wear an approved buoyancy aid (PFD ~ personal floatation device) when on or near water, check its floatation; make sure it is in good condition and the correct fit. There are four European standards for buoyancy aids and lifejackets which must all carry the CE mark. It is highly recommended that buoyancy aids are fitted with a whistle and retro reflective strips.

3. Never Kayak or Canoe alone. “Fewer than three should never be” is a long established fundamental rule of canoeing.

4. Continually seek further training. Know the limits of your capability and stay within these limits. Seek to develop your knowledge and skills incrementally. The Level 3 Skills Awards in each of the 3 noncompetitive disciplines are recommended as a minimum standard to be achieved.

5. Ensure your equipment is appropriate for the level and environment in which you are paddling and that it complies with safety regulations.

6. Wear a helmet when on or near the river. Ensure it fits correctly and protects the temples and back of head.

7. Wear and/or carry suitable footwear and sufficient warm protective clothing.

8. Carry equipment for unexpected emergencies.

9. Check the safety of your kayak/canoe. Check usability, security and strength of grab loops. It is highly recommended that kayaks/canoes have retro reflective strips.

10. Check that your kayak/canoe has flotation adequate to ensure it will float when full of water, possibly supplement it with air bags. Check that all screws and bolts are tight.

11. Let someone know what you are planning and when you are expected to return.

12. Be proficient in self rescue, including the skills of whitewater swimming techniques and a reliable Eskimo roll when paddling Grade 111 water or harder.

13. Be proficient in river rescue techniques appropriate for a trip being taken and practice these techniques regularly. Learn to recognize river hazards. Paddlers are generally good at practicing and improving their rescue skills, but not a practicing and improving their rescue skills. Youcan improve your safety on the water by attending an accredited rescue training course.

14. Be aware that the conditions change and new hazards can occur between trips. Be continually aware of the hazards associated with the environment in which you are paddling.

15. Think carefully about the suitability of your kayak/canoe for the particular conditions you are paddling. Know the design strengths and limitations of your kayak/canoe.

16. Check river flows and weather forecasts and be prepared to change plans.

17. Avoid injury by stretching, warming up, staying fit and developing good paddling techniques.

18. River estuaries often look placid but may be subject to strong rip currents extending considerable distance out to sea. Local knowledge should be sought and caution exercised against hazards caused by rapid “drying out” of mud flaps which may cause difficulties.

19. White water rivers are generally graded at medium levels. By their very nature, such grading systems are to some extent subjective and may change suddenly with fluctuating river levels.

20. Careful consideration should be given to the dangers associated with polluted or contaminated water and be aware of the dangers of Blue/Green Algae and the causes and early symptoms of Weil’s Disease.