- Joined
- May 17, 2009
- Location
- Charleston WV
With the temperatures dropping you should always be prepared for cold water, boaters should......
- Make sure the boat and equipment are in first-class condition.
- Always wear a life jacket or vest. It will keep you afloat and help keep you warm.
- Dress properly for the cold by wearing a hat, several layers of clothing, and warm boots. Wool, pile and polypropylene provide warmth even when wet. Avoid cotton fabrics, which are poor insulators when wet.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Never boat alone.
- Practice capsizing and righting kayaks and canoes in the warm-weather months.
- Never panic if you fall into cold water. Air trapped in clothing can provide buoyancy as long as you remain still in the water.