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Start canoeing - Safety

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Friday, 30 April 2010 11:16

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safety

Helmets are not essential in most races, but are considered essential on fast-flowing rocky rivers and waterways with high weirs.

The importance of a personal flotation device (PFD) cannot be underestimated. A PFD is designed for flotation and will keep a conscious person's head out of water in calm conditons. A lifejacket is much more buoyant and is designed to turn most unconscious persons into a face-up, head-out-of-water position. By law, canoeists must each possess one wearable flotation device. Life vests must be worn properly, meaning they are tied, zipped or otherwise attached properly to the body for maximum protection.

Even the most seasoned veterans never travel alone. Water safety specialists recommend traveling with at least three people in your party or two separate crafts. Also, be certain to let others staying behind know where you're going and when you're expected to return.

fuel yourself

Water bottles are best carried on your chest. The most popular systems in South Africa secure them to your PFD using straps. Liquid is sipped with a hose system.