Merit Badge Minute

What You Need to Know to Continue Your Advancement in One Minute

Whitewater

The American whitewater Safety Guide lines

1 Be a competent swimmer and especially know how to handle a situation in which you find yourself suddenly under water.

2 Wear a persona) notation device, make sure it's the right size and make sure it's adjusted correctly.

3 Wear a solid, correctly fitted helmet. They are required in kayaks and covered canoes, and they are recommended for open canoeists who use thigh straps and for rafters running steep drops.

4 keep your boat under control If you see a dangerous area ahead, you should be able to stop your vessel.

5 Be aware of river hazards. Travel with someone who is familiar with the river and the challenges it can pose.

6 Avoid boating alone. At a minimum, tackle Whitewater with three people in two different craft.

7 Know your limits. If you come across a stretch that appears to be too challenging for your skills, get out and walk.

8 Know how to selfrescue. Practice in advance on a still body of water.

9 Be trained in rescue skills, including first aid and CPR.

10 Be suitably equipped and prepared for emergencies.

11 Be responsive for your own safety.

Canoeing

Good Position

Putting yourself in the right position while paddling a canoe will allow you to paddle longer with minimal discomfort.

Cruising Position

Kneel, with your knees apart. Let your weight sit on the edge of the seat.

Relief Position

Kneel on the knee closest to the paddling side. Alternate this with the cruising position to provide some relief on a long trip.

Rowing

Competitive Rowing

If your high school doesn't have a rowing team, look in the phone book or on the Internet for rowing clubs in your community,

Each member of a rowing team has his own set of responsibilities. A qooa coach can help you determine what position is best suited to your skill level.

Generally, the rower sitting dosest to the stern Cthe rear of the boat? is a strong rower with excellent technique who sets the rhythm for his teammates.