Here are a few canoeing basics to keep you safe on the water when canoeing ...

• Don’t over-estimate your canoeing or kayaking ability.

• Always tell someone you are about to head out on the water, where you are going and what time you expect to return.

• Make sure you have good knowledge of the water you are about to paddle on.

• Check out the water quality before you head out canoeing and kayaking.

• Avoid capsize drill or ‘rolling’ in stagnant or slow moving water, particularly where rat infestation is obvious.

• Don’t use canoe and kayak equipment in open water that you are not familiar with.

• Get permission before canoeing and kayaking onto private property.

• Avoid wildlife disturbance and environmental damage when canoeing and kayaking.

• Be considerate to other water users.

• Avoid being an intrusion on local life when canoeing and kayaking.

• Always wear a life vest when canoeing and kayaking.