This course is designed as a short program emphasizing safety, enjoyment, and skill development. The skills and knowledge gained through this course can set the stage for a lifetime of exploration, adventures, a healthy lifestyle, appreciation of water and the natural world, lasting memories with family and friends, and a rewarding experience for all - we paddle because it is fun.
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!
The course duration should be adjusted to best fit the needs and goals of the participants, approximately 45 minutes - 1 hour.
Flat water, protected from wind, waves, and outside boat traffic, with current less than 0.5 knots, and within swimming distance of shore.
5 Participants : 1 Instructor; with an additional qualified assistant, the ratio can be 10 : 2.
Currently certified ACA Level 1 (or higher) Instructors within their discipline.
The following is a general summary of course content for the Smart Start for Safe Paddling course. The content covered and sequence of instruction should be adjusted to best fit the participant’s needs, class location and time allowance.
Current conditions, forecasts, and other environmental hazards including: