If you’re paddling in the winter, wear the proper attire such as drysuits or wetsuits.
Remember: Even if you don’t capsize, you may need to get in the water to help someone else in trouble.
Always make sure your boat has a sufficient amount of flotation in case of capsize.
Whitewater paddlers or anyone paddling in rough waters should wear a helmet.
Seek out good instruction prior to your trip with classes with alpineshop.com or an area organization like Missouri Whitewater Association (missouriwhitewater.org).