1. Stay Afloat
Wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when canoeing. A U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD is required for canoes used in United States' waters. There are exceptions to this rule but common sense calls for each canoeist to wear some form of flotation device in case of an accident. Type I is the safest life jacket you can wear. These life jackets are made for rough, off shore waters and will turn most unconscious wearers face up in the water. Type V PFDs are specially designed for certain activities, such as kayaking and waterskiing. The range of motion Type V PFDs offer makes it attractive to canoe enthusiasts. Note some Type V PFDs must be worn to comply with U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Try different PFDs to find the one that fits your canoeing style and stay safe while enjoying a day canoeing.
2. Be Heard
Carry a marine whistle, bell or air horn to comply with federal and state safety regulations, and to ensure your safety when visibility is poor or when an emergency strikes. Buy a device loud enough to be heard for at least half a mile for two to four seconds. Whistles cannot always be heard over boat engines, so explore other options, such as a handheld electronic horn or a manual horn you power with your lungs. Self contained air or aerosol powered horns also are available. Buy a horn, whistle or bell at your local boating store and make room for it in your canoe.
3. Be Seen When Needed
Practice signaling "distress." Mirrors and flags are inexpensive and acceptable for daytime canoeing. Marine flares are a must for ocean or Great Lakes canoeing. Handheld marine flares are an option for night time canoeing or canoeing in larger bodies of water. Comply with federal regulations requiring distress signals. Even if you are exempt from any of the regulations due to canoe size or type, comply with the safety requirements anyway.
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