When paddling, different factors can affect good verbal communication.
- Distance
- Wind
- Not speaking loudly and clearly
- Not being face to face
- Age, i.e. hearing loss
Here is a quick review of whistle and paddle signals to communicate with your paddling group when verbal communication is compromised; or download this document to take with you.
Whistle Signals
- ONE loud whistle blast: Attention. Stop and look for further direction.
- TWO loud whistle blasts: Stop. Stay where year - look for further direction.
- THREE loud whistle blasts: Emergency.
Paddle Signals
Paddle held horizontally over your head with two hands:
STOP. STAY WHERE YOU ARE.
Paddle held vertically over your head:
GATHER AROUND THE PERSON HOLDING THE PADDLE.
Paddle held at 45 degrees to body:
GO IN DIRECTION PADDLE IS POINTING TO.
Paddle overhead, waving back and forth:
EMERGENCY. COME HERE. HELP.
