Spring Cold Water Safety Workshop

We are gathering at our hosts: Annapolis Canoe & Kayak in Eastport **Here is our Cold Water Safety Workshop for PADDLERS** As we know, paddlesports deaths have increased annually, with increasing interest and access to paddlecraft. The US coast guard and the Water Sports Foundation report that kayaks are the vessel type with the second highest fatality rate (15%), behind open motorboats (44%). The US coast guard reports a 500% increase in the risk of drowning in cold water. Despite the increased risks of cold water, surveys of public knowledge of the dangers of cold water have shown that there is a great need for more education and information. While warm spring days and sunshine lures paddlers out onto dangerously cold water, there is a need for appropriate safety precautions. No one ever plans on falling in, and nothing happens until it does – [And by then then it’s too late.]

Every year, as water temperatures fall, we see tragic newspaper headlines of lone paddlers who capsize and never make it to shore. Many of these paddlers aren’t intentionally reckless?  Some are strong swimmers with years of paddling experience, however the margins for error are much smaller and the risks of cold water are far greater, including cold shock, swim failure, cold water induced vertigo, hypothermia, and post-rescue collapse.  No paddler ever intends or plans on falling into the water, but as all experienced paddlers know – “we are all between swims” and everyone swims eventually. 

Paddling on cold water safely, is a complex issue. There is a bewildering array of gear options. This workshop aims to educate you and assist you in making informed choices in selecting your cold water immersion gear, and to give you the capability to make informed choices IF you choose to go out on cold water.  Attendees will have the opportunity to swim test their gear a controlled environment with CPA volunteers standing by for safety.  If you are planning on going into the water to test your gear, which is optional, a signed waiver is required. Water temperatures are normally in the 40s this time of year. A wetsuit will probably not be sufficient. Drysuit strongly recommended. PFD, properly worn, is also required.

PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN FOLDING CHAIR !!