Group Organization

"There is safety in numbers" is a famous saying. This is very relevant to kayaking. Although kayaking is an individual sport in one sense, we are also part of a team. If our boat becomes stuck, if we swim, if we get injured; we rely on our buddies to rescue us. Larger groups often have a more formal structure. A trip leader will often designate several key positions/responsibilities:

• Lead - This person may be more humorously called the probe. The lead boater runs the rapids first looking for safe lines that others may follow. They are also responsible for identifying any significant hazards like strainers, sieves, undercuts, etc. If a hazard is identified, they may direct other boaters away from the hazard by pointing the paddle away from the hazard. If the drop is too dangerous to run, they will signal the rest of the group to carry. Lead boaters are strong boaters with great boat scouting skills. They should also have good rescue skills since they become a downstream safety boater by default. The lead boater must always keep an eye out for the group behind them and slows things down when the group is too separated.
• Sweep - The sweep boater is often the strongest boater in the group. If they get in trouble, someone from downstream needs to get back up to them somehow. This person plays a major role in keeping the group moving downstream and together. No one should fall behind the sweep boater.
• Trip Leader - This person is responsible for logistics. Once on the river, time management is the major task for the trip leader. The trip leader often assigns / recruits people for the various roles.
• Safety - This person needs strong rescue skills, preferably SWR training. They will organize safety on the more challenging or dangerous rapids. If an incident takes place, they will often take the lead in coordinating rescue efforts.
• Medic - This person hopefully has current First Aid training. They also need to carry one of the First Aid kits. It is a good idea to position this person near the rear of the group so they are readily available if needed.
• Participants - These people have an easy job. Each participant needs to keep an eye out for at least the boater before and after them. They need to maintain proper distance between boats to avoid running into one another. After each launch, do a quick equipment check on your fellow boaters. Is their spray skirt loop on the outside? Is their drain plug securely fastened? Does someone look like they need help?
• Mentors - These are also strong boaters that know the run. A trip leader may ask you to shepherd less experienced boaters through the more challenging rapids.
• Newbie's - These may be less confident boaters. It is a good idea to pair them with a mentor. Newbie's should be placed near the front of the pack since they often fall behind as the trip progresses. A close eye should be kept on newbie's to see if they are frightened about running particular rapids. If this is the case, offer to help portage or run their boat through those rapids for them.

Universal River Signals System

Whitewater can be a very noisy environment. Since it is difficult hearing instructions, we typically communicate visually via paddle or hand signals. It is also a very good idea to carry a loud safety whistle. The universal danger signal is three blasts. You can also call attention in a rescue situation with a single blast. The following article covers this topic: Paddle Signals.