Rescue Practice!

We are offering this free rescue practice to promote safety in paddling. We welcome beginners as well as seasoned paddlers.

This rescue workshop is limited to 12 people. No guests. Everyone must sign in themselves & start on the wait list. You must call me (845) 548-2198 and answer a few questions before getting on the going list.

Please arrive an hour (10:45) am early to park and get set up. We can eat our lunch and chat prior to our mandatory mtg.
Everyone must attend the mandatory mtg at 11:45 am prior to launching at 12:00 noon. Waivers must be signed prior to getting in the water, if you are late you won't be allowed to participate.

Wet exits, assisted and self rescues will be demonstrated and everyone will have a chance to be rescued and to rescue someone with supervision. Be prepared to get wet. All level kayakers welcome. You are encouraged to try a wet exit. We will use stirrups for those with mobility issues or who are tired to help get you back in your kayak. This workshop will be rain or shine.

There are no rentals available and no gear is provided. Each person must have their own kayak, paddle and Coast Guard approved PFD (personal flotation device/life jacket) which must be worn and fastened during this workshop. If you have a paddle float and pump please bring it with you, skirts recommended but not mandatory.

TYPE OF KAYAKS:
Sit in Kayaks must be 10' or longer, with a bulkhead and/or flotation bags. Deck lines and bungee cords should be in good repair. Surf skis are also welcome. No SOT's (sit on tops), canoes, inflatables, rafts or paddle boards. No pets allowed. If you are unsure if your boat qualifies please call me. (845) 548-2198. If you are proficient in rescuing and would like to volunteer to help out, please let me know. If we have more helpers we can take more kayakers.

There are no fees for this Rescue workshop, the instructors and assistants are volunteers. This is very valuable training free of charge to help promote safety in kayaking. An outfitter would charge $175.00 for this. If you are signed up, please show up or cancel so someone else can go. We are limiting this to 12 participants so everyone can get individual attention.

Please arrive early an hour before to unload, & park your car. Drive to the end of the dock to unload your boat, wheels/cart helpful. Don't block the launch, then move your car to a parking spot.

Bring a cart or wheels if you have them to transport your kayak to the water. We will help you carry your boat from your car if you need. We ask that everyone who is able to carry their boat and 1 other - teamwork makes for easier loading & unloading. 2 people should carry 1 kayak at at time.

WHAT TO WEAR
Please dress for immersion.
No cotton clothes, wear wicking type materials, skins, wet or dry suits if you feel cold. Please have a change of clothes in a dry bag in your kayak with a polar fleece top. A drytop, rain jacket, windbreaker is also good to bring.
No flip flops or backless sandals -water sneakers and neoprene booties are great. Do not go barefoot, closed toe shoes/sandals are mandatory.

Bring a change of clothes, shoes etc. to leave in your car for afterwards and a towel. Pack sunscreen, bug spray, hat, sunglasses with sunglass holder to prevent loss. Bring water, snacks, lunch, meds anything you need for a 1/2 day on the water.

Check back the Friday before for a weather update. Lets get wet and have some fun rescuing and being rescued.