cold water, small craft

[fats95]

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.