Guidelines for Trip Participants



  • PaCO Participant Guidelines

    Paddling and camping are inherently dangerous activities; thus, everyone is responsible for their own safety. While we operate with the understanding that trip participants are self-reliant and self-sufficient, we are here to support each other. We won't abandon anyone on the water or at a shuttle. We want to have fun, but believe in safety first on the river.

  • On the Water
    All paddling and camping participants must sign a Liability Waiver and Emergency Contact form. This can be done at the annual meeting or prior to a trip. No exceptions.
    We encourage you to leave personal medical information with the trip leader (or another paddler) in case of emergency.
    The group operates on the understanding that all participants are essentially self sufficient and self reliant.
    Participants are expected to be able to handle their boats in moving water.
    PFD's are strongly suggested for participants.
    Know your skills and limits! If a planned trip involves Class II or III water and you are a new or inexperienced paddler, be discerning in your decision to join the float. Remember, the club is not liable for any injury that may occur.
    Volunteer to shuttle.
    Be ready to shuttle in a timely manner - the trip leader will announce departure times; be ready and have your boat loaded (on a trailer or car) in advance of the departure time.
    We recommend you secure the following equipment to your boat: (NOTE: some states require this safety equipment)
    Painter ropes on bow and stern
    One throw rope (preferably two, ideally floating rope)
    Throw bag
    Signaling device (whistle or air-horn)
    Extra paddle
    A water-proof rescue bag with a change of clothes
    A first aid kit
    Water (always have more than you think you will need) lunch and snacks
    Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather conditions. (Synthetic fibers wick moisture and dry quickly, wool retains heat even when wet. Cotton is not recommended)
    Lights are required for evening paddles (per state law).
    No alcohol on the river, per state law.
    The trip leader or assistant has the final word when boats are on the water.
    Ensure that your boat's license is current and that you have the registration with you.

  • Camping

    On most trips, PaCO participants are expected to reserve (or arrange shares) of campsites on their own. On some trips the leader may reserve a group campsite. Please reimburse the trip leader for camping charges in a timely fashion. (NOTE: If you sign-up for a trip and then cancel at the last-minute, you will be responsible for your share of trip expenses)
    Follow campground rules.
    Be a good steward of the campground - clean up around your site and help maintain our general area.

  • Other

    The trip leader or a designee is responsible for submitting a trip report after the outing. The report includes a maximum of 50 photos.
    Input from participants is always appreciated, but please review your pictures for duplicates and obvious bloopers before sending them to our webmaster (tbone@redbird.net).
    If you would like to submit info for the trip report, please email it to the trip leader.

  • Photo submission Guidelines:

    Send photos as an email attachment, with 4 or 5 photos per email.
    Photos must be jpeg, not any other format. (Convert iPhone photos before sending)
    Photos should be actual size.