(1) Assessing their own skill and ability
(2) Contacting the trip leader for information regarding the trip
[Note: some trips might be canceled, if the leader does
not know that anyone else is going.]
(3) Checking the tides, currents, wind, and water conditions to assess their personal
safety.
(4) Bringing the minimum required equipment:
self rescue skills (demonstrated)
a PFD
a pump
a self rescue float
a signal device (a whistle or flares)
drinking water
extra clothes in a dry bag
food appropriate to the trip
