Smart Start for Safe Paddling

Paddling is a diverse and rewarding outdoor activity with a large variety of crafts, landscapes, waterways, and on-water adventures to explore. Tens of millions of people around the world enjoy paddling canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards (SUPs), and rafts each year. The American Canoe Association’s (ACA) vision is to engage millions of paddlers with safe and healthy opportunities for challenge, learning, service, and enjoyment. 

The ACA is pleased to share core paddling principles that will keep you, your friends, and your family safe on the water and creating lasting memories for years to come. Learning the principles and information presented here will help increase fun and decrease accidents on the water. ACA’s Smart Start for Safe Paddling is a holistic program which features:

Resource book including glossary of terms (this item)

A student workbook including comprehension questions, answer key, and skills checklists

Instructor’s guide with presentation slides

On-water training course outline

Collection of complementary resources

Learn more: https://americancanoe.org/smart-start