Leadership & Safety
Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.
Our trips are built to be challenging and rewarding, but safety comes first. Good leadership isn't about telling people what to do. It's preparation, communication, sound judgment and teamwork, so everyone understands the conditions and responsibilities of every adventure.
Who started the club
West Michigan Kayaking Club was founded in 2019 by Brad De Young and Tim Postma for people who wanted more than short, casual paddles.
It has grown into a community of paddlers and outdoor adventurers who share a passion for exploring Michigan by land and water.
What we're built around
- Adventure paddling
- River exploration
- Hiking
- Wilderness camping
- Endurance challenges
- Michigan's wild places
How a group moves on the river
Depending on group size and difficulty, trips may use lead, middle and sweep positions. Tap a boat to see what each one does.
Lead
The lead paddler sets the group's direction and pace while watching for changing river conditions, obstacles, hazards and upcoming decision points.
On difficult portages or obstacles, leaders may help participants as conditions require. Group leadership is a team effort.
Experience behind the trips
Club leadership brings 25+ years of paddlesports experience, American Canoe Association (ACA) membership and ongoing kayaking instructor training.
Credentials and experience don't remove the inherent risks of kayaking, hiking, camping, moving water, weather or wilderness travel. Always make decisions based on your own abilities and experience.
Leaders aren't rescuers
Don't assume a trip leader is a professional guide, lifeguard, medical provider or emergency responder. Remote waterways and trails can delay help, so every participant should carry their own safety gear and be ready to handle reasonable emergencies until professional help arrives.
Pack check
Depending on the trip, this is the gear we recommend. Tick it off as you pack.
On the water
Procedures vary with the river, weather, distance, water conditions, group size and difficulty. For kayaking trips, these apply.
PFDs
A properly fitted PFD must be worn while on the water.
Group awareness
Stay aware of the paddlers around you and call out hazards or problems immediately.
Lead and sweep
When appropriate, designated lead and sweep positions are used to keep the group together.
Portages and obstacles
Follow leader instructions around portages, downed trees, rapids, crossings and other hazards.
Darkness
Plan around daylight and be off the water at least one hour before dark, unless a specific trip plan says otherwise.
Changing conditions
Weather, water levels, river and trail conditions can change quickly. Trip plans may be modified, shortened, delayed, relocated or canceled when conditions warrant. No itinerary is more important than safety.
Your responsibilities
Club events are 100% self-supported unless stated otherwise. Every participant is responsible for:
- Knowing your physical abilities and limits
- Bringing appropriate equipment
- Wearing a properly fitted PFD while kayaking
- Bringing enough food and water
- Dressing for the weather
- Carrying your medications and personal supplies
- Understanding the planned distance and difficulty
- Following applicable laws and regulations
- Paying attention to safety briefings
- Communicating hazards or medical concerns
- Making responsible decisions about your participation
You are responsible for your own safety.
If a trip is beyond your ability or comfort level, don't sign up for it. Check the trip level before you commit.
Prevent the emergency
Good preparation is the first line of defense. We work through every trip the same way:
- PlanKnow the route, distance and difficulty.
- PreparePack the right gear, food and water.
- CommunicateShare hazards and concerns early.
- MonitorWatch the weather, water and each other.
- AdaptChange the plan when conditions change.
If conditions become unsafe, the group may change the route, stop paddling, exit the river, shorten the trip or cancel the activity. No distance, destination, schedule or event is worth putting someone at unnecessary risk.
In an emergency: alert group leadership immediately and call 911 or the appropriate emergency service when needed. Remote areas can delay help, which is why personal preparation matters.
No drugs or alcohol on club events
Drugs and alcohol are not permitted while participating in West Michigan Kayaking Club events. Anyone who violates this policy may be removed from the event immediately and may be barred from future club activities.
Safety and responsible behavior are non-negotiable.
Adventure with responsibility
We want members to paddle farther, hike deeper and see places many people never will. That means respecting the environment, knowing your abilities, preparing for the unexpected and looking out for one another.
Come prepared. Know your limits. Respect the river. Watch out for each other.