ALWAYS leave a Float Plan and—as much as possible—go with a paddle partner.
Make sure that someone, who is not paddling with you, knows your float plan. Inform them of:
- When and where you are starting
- When and where you plan to finish
- How many are in your group
- A phone number, in case you you don’t call them when you’re finished
There are more safety devices to be considered depending on the type of paddling you are planning on doing. Take some time to look over the safety list. Look at the route you want to take and think about what items might be necessary. Check the weather forecast to make sure that the weather will be consistent for the day of your paddle. Generally the more long-range the forecast the less dependable it will be so confirm the weather a day or two before your trip. Make sure there’s no expected increase in surf activity for your paddle route.
If you are paddling with a group of people (or just another individual) make sure that everyone knows the paddle plan and confirm that their skill levels are adequate for that paddle. If anyone feels uneasy about the difficulty of a particular paddle, encourage them to postpone the paddle trip and paddle on a day that is better for their skill level/comfort. Make sure that no one is allergic to bee stings as they are at a greater risk from the venom of jellyfish stings.
Above all, relax and have fun! Practice canoeing/kayaking in all types of ocean and weather conditions, so that way you are ready for anything that nature throws at you.