Whether you are on a river, a lake, estuary, or the ocean, understanding basic dangers and problems that may arise are important to all those who visit our Virginia waterways. Due to the easy access to many of our waterways it is easy to forget that you are not in a controlled environment such as a theme park. While no one can provide a “safe” trip there are dangers inherent to paddling and waterways. VAPPA members will request that participants sign a release and assumption of risk document prior to your outing. In order to provide an enjoyable trip VAPPA members want their guests to understand some of the basic safety information as well as some of the dangers that may not be understood before launching. The Virginia Professional Paddlesports Association cares about you and your family and wants to help you have the most enjoyable experience possible. As such, we have listed below some tips and hints as well as notable information about laws in Virginia regarding outdoor activities to assist in meeting that goal. Above all – ALWAYS WEAR YOUR LIFE VEST.

High Water and Strong Currents Moving Water & Coastal:	Muddy water, floating debris, and water into tree/bank line are dangerous. Check levels and your outfitter before setting out.
Strainers and Sweepers Moving, Whitewater & Coastal	Downed or fallen trees and in-stream objects are a serious threat. They allow water to pass through but can trap people and equipment. Keep clear of side channels and in-water debris. Overhanging trees along banks can “sweep” participants out of boats.
Sharp Rocks and Uneven River Beds Moving and White Water	Uneven river bottoms create hydraulics and foot entrapment opportunities. Never attempt to stand in swift water above your knee.
Hydraulics Moving and Whitewater	Even small ledges, dams, and low water bridges create powerful hydraulics which can trap boaters and equipment. Know how to spot them and check with outfitters before launching.
Heat Exhaustion & Dehydration All Waterways	Often overlooked in warm weather. Keep well hydrated and protected from the sun. Sunburn is the #1 boating injury.
Alcohol and Intoxicants All Waterways	Your life might depend on keeping a clear head. Save the drunken stupor for somewhere else. See the "ITS THE LAW" insert below.
Weather All Waterways	Changes in weather, cool days and thunderstorms, all create special problems. Be prepared by bringing rain gear and extra clothing in a waterproof container. Immediately get off waterway or seek shelter in Thunderstorms.
Strong tides, waves and currents Coastal	Know before you go.
Deep Water Capsize Lakes and Coastal	Don't paddle large lakes or coastal areas alone. Righting a swamped boat can be difficult

There Is No Bad Weather.....Just Bad Preparation!

It's The LAW! Boating while intoxicated-(BWI)-is illegal . Legal limits have recently been lowered. Consumption or display of alcohol at public boat lanches and state parks is strictly prohibited and heavily enforced. Don't risk arrest! It is illegal to be on public waterways without a lifevest-(PFD)-of proper size and good condition. Littering in Virginia is illegal. Keep the river beautiful for others to enjoy and pack out all trash!

Do NOT Trespass: The major complaint where public waters intersect private property is trespass. Please respect the rights of landowners no matter where you are in Virginia. We support arrest for all folks who violate trespass laws.

Don't Trash The Waterway: Most guests exhibit excellent outdoor ethics and leave little footprints on the waterway. However....some still just don't get it! Please respect all waterway by not littering. – The waters belong to all Virginians.. Trash In....Trash Out. ( See the Principals of "Leave No Trace" )

Respect Other Users: Everyone has the right to use waterway as they wish. Participants are expected to be considerate of all river users, especially anglers. This is especially true for folks renting Tubes.

Drinking Drinking in public...especially while floating...is not only stupid but also dangerous. Most drowning deaths involve alcohol and no life vest. Please leave the party for home...speaking of home...how do you plan to get there? We support arresting participants who are drunk.

Waterway Etiquette: Your Behavior is Your  Responsibility! Be courteous to all those sharing the Waterway.

VAPPA supports the LEAVE NO TRACE outdoor ethic – listed below.

Plan Ahead and Prepare

•  Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit.

•  Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.

•  Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.

•  Visit in small groups. Split larger parties into groups of 4-6.

•  Repackage food to minimize waste.

•  Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

•  Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.

•  Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.

•  Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.

•  In popular areas:

•  Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.

•  Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.

•  Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.

•  In pristine areas:

•  Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.

•  Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

Dispose of Waste Properly

•  Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.

•  Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.

•  Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.

•  To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

Leave What You Find

•  Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts.

•  Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.

•  Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.

•  Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

Minimize Campfire Impacts

•  Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.

•  Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.

•  Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.

•  Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

Respect Wildlife

•  Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.

•  Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.

•  Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.

•  Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.

•  Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

Be Considerate of Other Visitors

•  Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.

•  Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.

•  Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.

•  Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.

•  Let nature's sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises