Meeting Offers Tips on Canoe and Kayak Safety

Cindy McKown, a member of the National Canoe Safety Patrol, will give a presentation on river safety at the next meeting of the Ahwaga Canoe and Kayak Club planned for March 22 at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Central United Methodist Church in Endicott.

Nearly 70 percent of all people who drown in accidents involving canoes, kayaks or rafts might have been saved if the victim had been wearing a life jacket, according to the American Canoe Association. Paddlers also increase their safety by learning how to avoid dangerous obstacles, dressing appropriately for cold or warm weather and unexpected flips, drinking plenty of water, carrying safety equipment such as ropes and throw bags and learning to rescue themselves or assist others in rescues.

As a volunteer with the National Canoe Safety Patrol, McKown helps to promote river safety and perform swiftwater rescue operations on rivers in our region. In addition to her training with the NCSP, McKown has completed several other swiftwater rescue courses.

The Central United Methodist Church is at 17 Nanticoke Ave., Endicott, across from the Cider Mill.

The Ahwaga Canoe and Kayak Club is part of the Paddle America Club Program of the American Canoe Association. For more information, visit

www.ahawagacanoeandkayak.org. For questions about the meeting, contact Merrill Douglas at 748-6661, or email mdouglas@stny.rr.com.

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