PADDLERsmart! USA Knowledge Base
Module 05 - Emergency Preparedness
CAPSIZING AND FALLS OVERBOARD
Capsizing is the frightening experience of your boat flipping upside down in the water and it’s consistently the leading cause of boating-related fatalities in the U.S.
How to Prevent a Capsizing Emergency
The best way to avoid a fall overboard or a capsizing situation is to never overload your paddle craft. Too much weight will cause your paddle craft to sit lower in the water and increase the odds of potentially being swamped by a wake or wave—especially if the water conditions are rough.
For maximum stability, always stay centred and low in the paddle craft, avoid standing or making sudden movements and always maintain your three points of contact when boarding or exiting the craft.
