The Flatwater Canoe Safety and Rescue workshop introduces flat water safety practices and rescue techniques that can be performed with a minimum of equipment, in the first few minutes of an emergency.
If you’re a student who would like a resource to prepare for this course, ACA is pleased to provide a free online paddling safety course, here. A certificate of completion is included!
Appropriately fitted life jacket designed for paddling, protective clothing suitable for extended time in the water, appropriate footwear, boat, paddle, and whistle. All types of canoes may be used, at the instructor’s discretion.
The course duration should be adjusted to best fit the needs and goals of the participants. Suggested time: Half a day to one day (4-8 hours).
Flat water with easy access and sufficient depth for safe wet exits by beginners. Protected space is needed for on-land work, with adequate shelter for inclement weather. This class should be held within ¼ mile of shore.
Tandem: 6 participants : 1 Instructor; with an additional instructor, the ratio can be 12 : 2.
Solo: 5 participants : 1 Instructor; with an additional instructor, the ratio can be 10 : 2.
This course may be offered by Level 2: Essentials of River Canoeing or Level 2: Essentials of Canoe Touring (or higher) ACA Instructors, Instructor Trainers, or Instructor Trainer Educators.