Safety
The official safety page of the West Michigan Kayaking Club. How we rate trips, what to check before you paddle, and the rules every member follows.
Trip Difficulty
Every club trip gets a level. Tap one to see what it means, and only sign up for trips that match your ability.
Level 1: Beginner
Up to about 8 miles. Calm water and a relaxed pace, a good first club trip.
Level 2: Intermediate
About 8 to 15 miles. Expect moving water and a steady pace for most of the day.
Level 3: Expert
About 15 to 25 miles. Long days that call for stamina, river reading and solid boat control.
Level 4: Professional
20 to 30+ miles, often multi-day with camping gear. Requires self-sufficiency.
Required Equipment
Bring all of the following on every club trip. If you're missing required gear, sit the trip out.
Club Safety Rules
These apply on every West Michigan Kayaking Club trip, no exceptions.
- Wear your PFD at all times on the water.
- Check water levels and the forecast before you leave.
- Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- File a trip plan: tell someone your route and expected return time.
- Stay with the group.
- Follow trip leader calls.
- Only sign up for trips at or below your skill level.
- No alcohol or impairing substances at club events.
- Pack the essentials listed under Required Equipment.
Emergency Procedures
Know these before you need them.
- Alert the trip leader immediately if anyone capsizes, is injured, or is in trouble.
- Call 911 for any serious emergency. Know the name of your put-in and take-out so you can give dispatchers your location.
- Three whistle blasts is the universal distress signal. Repeat until acknowledged.
- Keep the group together until the situation is fully resolved.
- Do not attempt a rescue beyond your training. Throw, row, then go — reach or throw assistance first, and only enter the water as a last resort.
River Resources
Water levels, weather and Michigan paddling resources.