Often the best paddling opportunities exist in the spring and fall, when cooler weather and cold water increases the risks associated with getting wet. All paddlers should take the necessary precautions to be able to safely enjoy canoeing, kayaking and rafting under these conditions. It is essential that you carefully read and follow the advice below to increase your odds of survival should you capsize or encounter bad weather.

Cold Shock is a dangerous, sometimes fatal, condition that can result when a person is suddenly immersed in cold water, such as would occur in a capsize. The sudden exposure of the head and chest to cold water typically causes an involuntary gasp for air, sudden increases in heart rate and blood pressure, disorientation and can possibly cause cardiac arrest.

Hypothermia is a dangerous and often-fatal condition that results when exposure to cold temperatures causes the body to no longer be able to maintain its normal temperature in the core region (heart, lungs, etc.). While this condition can occur through exposure to cold air alone, its onset is much faster when the body is wet or immersed in water. Paddlers must take special care to protect themselves from this danger any time they paddle in cold water, rainy conditions, or cool air temperatures.

Frostbite

To reduce the exposure to these hazards:

• Dress in layers using synthetic fabrics such as polyester fleece to prevent getting overheated or chilled from perspiration. Avoid wearing cotton clothing when paddling in cool or cold temperatures.

• Carry a waterproof jacket designed for splash and/or rain protection.

• Any time the water temperature is less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit, wear specialized insulating clothing capable of protecting you while in the water  

• You should always wear a wet suit or dry suit 1) if both the air temperature and water temperature are below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, 2) if you will be far from shore on cold water, or 3) anytime in cool or mild weather when you expect be repeatedly exposed to cold water. Keep in mind that the best type of wetsuit for paddling is the "Farmer john" style, and that the warmth and comfort range of a dry suit can be flexible based on the clothing worn underneath it.

• Wear a warm hat that will stay on your head in the water. A fleece-lined skullcap is ideal.

• Have spare dry clothing and store in a sealed dry bag while on the water and, if wet, change into dry clothing at first signs of shivering.

• Test your protective clothing in a controlled cold water environment to understand the level of protection provided.

• Know the water temperature before you set out. Please recognize that dam released water can be significantly colder than expected.

• Always wear your lifejacket (PFD).

• Paddle near to shore and/or near others who can help you in the event of capsize.

• Keep your body well fueled with high carbohydrate foods and lots of water.

In the event of a capsize in cold water:

• Get out of the water and dry off as quickly as possible.

• Once you are out of the water, put on dry clothes.

• If you are unable to exit the water quickly, keep calm, remain with your boat, conserve energy and get in the H.E.L.P. (heat escape lessening posture) position - fold your arms against your chest, cross legs, and keep still until help arrives.

• If 2 or more people are in the water, get into the "Huddle" posture - put your arms around one another, stay close together, and keep still.

• Only attempt to swim to shore if 1) the is little or no chance of rescue 2) you are in danger of floating into dangerous rapids or other hazards, 3) you are absolutely certain you can make it.

Note: Any decision to swim for shore should not be entered into lightly. Physical activity such as swimming, or other struggling in the water increases heat loss. Survival time can be reduced to minutes. Strong swimmers have died before swimming 100 yards in cold water. In water under 40 degrees Fahrenheit, victims have died before swimming 100 feet. Also keep in mind that judging distance accurately on the water is difficult.