Have A Safe Labor Day Weekend!

P.O.A. wants to remind you that it will be busy on the water this weekend. With that in mind, here are a few tips and etiquette to remember when you are heading out in your kayak or canoe to do a little holiday paddling. We call them the "3 Be's":

1) Be Visible. Wear bright colored clothing and/or a bright hat. If you have the option, go with your yellow or orange paddle blades. If you only have black or wood blades, hey...its the end of the season and there are a ton of sales on paddles. Now you have a good excuse (for safety's sake of course) to pick up that bright colored paddle! And if paddling at dusk, make sure you have the proper lighting so that other boats can easily spot you. Remember, assume that bigger boats don't always see you, so be sure to do all you can to maximize your visibility.

2) Be Alert. If you are lucky, you will find some nice calm water to navigate without anyone to disturb your relaxing paddle. But, chances are you will run into gobs and gobs (yes, that means a lot) of weekend warriors cruising in speedboats and racing around on jet skis. So, you need to make sure that you are well aware of your surroundings at all times. Plan ahead so that oncoming vessels can easily steer clear of you. Try to avoid heavily congested areas and be sure to give other boaters plenty of distance. Scan for any hazards and be able to react if you spot any.

3) Be Ready. Make sure that if you head out into the waters this weekend, you do so with a full understanding of your limitations. Don't try to paddle an area above your experience level. Conditions can change at any time and you should be sure that you are capable of handling them. Weather is always a factor, so make sure to check it before you head out. Wind can change the water you are paddling through in the blink of an eye. If you have the proper equipment (PFD, pump, paddle float) and are fully prepared, you can assure yourself a great time and a safe return.

So, now that you've given it some thought, get out there! Grab some friends, your better half or your pet and get that paddle in the water. Enjoy the long weekend and we hope to see you on the water soon.

Paddle On,

Gabriel Cash

P.O.A.