TALKING POINTS at the put-in:

Circle up! Gather all the participants together, ask that they all have PFD’s on, and paddle in hand.

Self introductions around the group. All boats should have at least one spare paddle, a bailer, and throw rope. Note which canoes have the wrap rope, and first aid kit.

Designate Lead and Sweep boats – all boats stay between. These are the experienced paddlers, and skilled in first aid/rescue.

Scouting The Lead canoe will stop to have the group scout rapids/hazards as deemed appropriate for the group skills. Each individual must make their own decision as to paddle a drop, or line/portage. The river leader may advise the group, or some individuals to portage a rapid. See that they get assistance. Individuals may ask for advice from experienced paddlers, but make your own choice. Make a decision and act. Don’t take forever, or wait until you watch everyone else paddle away.

General description of the run, and any know hazards and points of interest.

Reading water/ sweepers, hazards

(stay to the inside of a curve; if you can't see around a corner, pull over & scout)

AWA River Signals – whistles

Review self rescue / rescue procedure

Hypothermia warning / procedure to treat it

Safety equipment checkoff (PFD, whistle, helmets, throw ropes, first aid kit, wrap kit)

Club Equipment to bring

• Boats - in good repair+
• Paddles – spares+
• PFD+ - with knife, whistle
• Helmet+ (required for Class II and above)
• Throw Bag+ (for people rescue, not pinned boats)
• First Aid Kit+
• Wrap Rope+
• extraction rope (static line) for pinned boats / recovery
• carabiners
• slings (tubular webbing
)
• prussik loops
• rescue pulleys