Details for ACA L1: Introduction to Kayaking

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Thank you for registering for Blues City Kayaks' American Canoe Association course L1: Introduction to Kayaking class! Please read the information below thoroughly. It will help ensure things run as smoothly as possible. We are looking forward to introducing you to the wonderful world of kayaking! 

Below is a link to the waiver form for the trip. Please print it out, read it, initial and sign, and bring it with you. If you have a guest besides yourself, a copy will need to be filled out by them as well. If your guest is a minor, please fill this out on their behalf and a parent or legal guardian must sign and attend.  

waiver.bluescitykayaks.com

LIFEJACKETS ARE REQUIRED: Every Blues City Kayaks participant is required to wear a US Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) while paddling or in the water. Children must wear child size approved PFD’s. There are no exceptions to the PFD requirements. A PFD is included with your boat rental.

All Blues City Kayaks participants will need to meet the class location no later than the scheduled start time. 

If you have any questions ,or have difficulty finding the venue, please don't hesitate to call or text (901) 762-1133. 

You should bring sunscreen & bug spray (if class is outside), water, snacks, as well as any other personal items you may need. For a comfortable trip back home, you may want to bring a second set of clothing to keep in your vehicle to change into after the class. 

Dry-wick or neoprene layers are recommended. Another recommendation is to bring a set of dry clothing in the event your clothes get wet. Please bring plenty of water and snacks for the class. Also, be sure and bring a very pleasant, accommodating attitude and come prepared to enjoy a relaxing evening laying the foundation for your kayaking skills! 

Water sensitive electronic devices should be securely stored in a dry bag when not in use. “Zip-lock” plastic bags are not waterproof and will not offer protection from the water. Your instructor will have dry bags for such items so be sure let your instructor know if you need something stored. Items to consider are cellphones, electronic keys, wallets, cameras, and anything else that could be damaged if immersed in water. 

During  our course you will go through the following:Introduction

Expectations, and Logistics: 

• Welcome, introductions, paperwork 
• Student and instructor course expectations and limitations 
• Course itinerary and site logistics 
• Review waiver, assumption of risk, challenge by choice, medical disclosure 
• About the ACA 

Preparing to Depart: 

• Discuss weather conditions, forecasts, and other environmental hazards (wind, water, weather, waves) 
• Make sure the boat is securely fastened to the car or racks, using proper tie downs, straps, or knots. 
• Review proper techniques to safely lift and carry the kayak on shore 
• Review life jackets appropriate for the operator’s size, kayak, and activity, assuring all others in the group are properly wearing their life jacket 
• Describe and follow safe boating practices (behavior, substance abuse, on water and land etiquette, leave no trace ethics) 
• Review elements of a float plan (Who, What, When, Where, filing practices) 
• Review personal equipment needed for the kayak, activity and environment 
• Prepare kayak for departure: stowing gear securely, and ensuring it is balanced 
• How to hold the paddle in correct orientation and grip for effective paddling 

Maneuvers: to be performed with appropriate and efficient strokes, while maintaining the trim and balance of the craft 

• Enter and launch kayak from shore in a controlled manner, checking for clear departure 
• Propel the kayak forward in a straight line 15-20 boat lengths 
• Stop the kayak within two boat lengths 
• Move the kayak backwards 3-4 boat lengths 
• Turn the kayak from a stationary position 180° to the right and left ● Move the kayak sideways 10 feet (3 meters) to each side 
• Arrive at destination point, checking for clear approach, and exit the kayak in a controlled and safe manner 

Technical Knowledge: 

• Review paddling equipment, terminology (kayak and paddle), and care of gear 
• How to avoid and prevent cold water shock, hypothermia and hyperthermia by choosing proper clothing; recognizing and treating early symptoms; 1-10-1 rule. 
• Recognize the importance of hydration 
• Recognize and appropriately use communication (paddle/oar and whistle) signals 
• Describe best paddling practices: posture, balance, awareness of body-kayak-blade relationship 

Safety and Rescue 

• Demonstrate awareness of rescue priorities:people, kayak, paddle, gear 
• Describe the responsibilities of: the group, rescuer, swimmers   
• Identify and demonstrate the use of appropriate rescue and safety gear for the craft and planned activity 
• Rescue self and the kayak using an effective self rescue technique (e.g., swim self and boat to shore, or deep water reentry). 

Conclusion and Wrap Up: 

• Group debrief or individual feedback 
• Course limitations 
• Importance of additional instruction, practice, experience 
• Life sport and paddling options 
• Local paddling groups and clubs 
• Handouts and reference materials 
• ACA membership forms