Paddle Safety

Paddling Event Guidelines

By Doug Lowry, NSRWA Board Member and National Outdoor Leadership School instructor.

One of the NSRWA's goals is to "Encourage stewardship of the watershed through public education, outreach and recreation programs." Historically, a popular way to do this has been by hosting several paddling trips on the North and South Rivers throughout the year. What a delight it is to view cardinal flowers, a great blue heron or autumn foliage from a canoe or kayak. The rivers can be a source of relaxation and inspiration. It is easy to see why our paddling events have become so popular.

Over the years the NSRWA has been lucky and grateful for all of the volunteers who have helped organize and lead these trips. Their dedication and skills have been a huge part of the success of these events. We are also thankful for participants' generous donations in lieu of an event charge.

Below are requirements and guidelines that will enhance the educational opportunities and safety of participants:

What Should You Bring (click here for a printable list)

• Personal Flotation Devices PFDs (life preservers) are required. The NSRWA insists that you and your children wear a zipped up PFD at all times while paddling.
• Your own canoe/kayak, paddles, and safety equipment are also required. If your kayak does not have bulkheaded compartments, you will need adequate flotation. Inflatable airbags or bubble wrap packaging material work well.
• A signed liability waiver (please print, read and sign)
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Dry bag for wallet, keys, etc.
• Adequate water to drink and a snack
• Shoes that can get wet
• A headlamp or a waterproof flashlight for our moonlight paddles

What Should You Know (click here for a printable list)

• You are responsible for your own safety and should know how to swim and paddle. Please print out, read, and sign our liability waiver and bring it with you.
• Be familiar with your equipment. Our trips are not appropriate for first time paddles, unless otherwise specified. You should be able to: enter and exit your boat from the shore; exit and enter your boat in deep water; and return to your boat unaided after capsizing. Instruction will not be provided unless otherwise specified.
• Arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before the trip leaves.
• Pre-registration is required. Please email Paula or call her at 781-659-8168. No on-site registration will be allowed.
• We will not go out on the river if there is lightning or high winds.
• Dress appropriately for the weather. If the weather is cool, plan to carry an appropriate change of clothes and towel in your boat (in a waterproof bag).
• We discourage taking small children unless you are an experienced boater. Youngsters under the age of 10 are not permitted. Children between 10 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
• If you have allergies, medical conditions, or are taking prescribed drugs, consult with your physician before participating in our paddles.
• Please leave your pets in the safety of your home.
• Alcohol use is not permitted on our paddles.
• We reserve the right to exclude participants if their actions compromise the safety of others or themselves.
• Donations are greatly appreciated.

The NSRWA is dedicated to providing trip leaders who are familiar with the North and South Rivers. Leaders will provide human and natural history information, tips on reading tide tables, potential hazards and pull-outs along the way. Leaders will determine a comfortable pace for the group (participants will be required to stay within the perimeters determined by the trip leaders) and facilitate a safe and enjoyable paddle. Leaders will also participate in an ongoing training program, be familiar with safety gear, basic rescues, and well-versed in decision making.

We look forward to continue to draw upon our many talented volunteer trip leaders and will keep you informed on our trip leader training sessions. It is our hope that we can provide our membership with opportunities to paddle on the North and South Rivers with us at our scheduled events, but also provide help for those who will venture on the Rivers by themselves and with friends and family. See you on the rivers