Are You Using This Free Service For Paddlers?

Even the most cautious and experienced boaters run into unexpected problems on the water. That's why the US Coast Guard recommends that all recreational boaters, paddlers included, take advantage of the FREE Vessel Safety Check program. 

The US Coast Guard Auxiliary offers non-law enforcement vessel safety checks to paddle crafts. There is no charge to these checks and you will not suffer any consequences if you don't pass. The only purpose is to keep you safe! 

Learn more about this life-saving service here, and request a vessel safety check today through this simple online form.

How does it work? A certified vessel examiner will come to you, and the inspection only takes 30-45 minutes. If you pass the examination, you'll receive a distinctive VSC decal to show off your safety smarts. 

The ACA would love to see more paddlers taking advantage of this free program. 

Top 3 Reasons to Join the ACA as an Outfitter, Livery or Guide

Our newest membership type is designed specifically for outfitter, livery and guide (OLG) services. 

In addition to the regular benefits of ACA membership, OLGs also receive:

1. INSURANCE - You'll get access to a broad selection of exclusive insurance products, all at a special rate.
2. PROMOTION - All outfitter, livery and guide members receive recognition across the ACA's different social media networks, Water Blog, and Journal of Paddlesport Education monthly enewsletter.
3. RAPID MEDIA SUBSCRIPTION - You'll get a free 1-year subscription to each of the 4 Rapid Media magazine titles. 

Visit our website to read about all the benefits to this newest type of membership, and please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions. We'll help you decide which type of membership is best for you!

Why Wearing a Life Jacket is a Big Deal

This Maggie Award winning DVD addresses the importance of life jackets in a fresh, entertaining way. The host of Life Jackets Float. Do You? helps viewers discover the many challenges moving water presents - vertical currents, holes, strainers, foot entrapments, cold water. 

As the host so effectively proves, a properly worn life jacket is THE essential tool for having fun on (and in) the water!

Buy your copy of Life Jackets Float. Do you? from the ACA eStore today.

ACA members, don't forget to log in to receive your member discount on your purchase!

Safe Sea Kayaking - DVD, CD-ROM & Teacher's Guide

Decide to Return: A Strategy for Safe Sea Kayaking explores the conscious decisions and unconscious choices that we make every time we leave the shore. Sometimes these choices mean the difference between a safe outing and disaster.

Kate and Jack experience a gamut of hazards on their brief outing. Some are courtesy of Mother Nature but others they've brought upon themselves. This DVD will give you practical information and food for thought so you'll be prepared for your next sea kayaking adventure.

Follow Kate and Jack as their skill, preparedness and equipment choices shape the day. Will their decisions seal an unpleasant fate or enable a safe return?

Also included is a CD-Rom containing a teacher's guide in PDF format and a Power Point presentation to be used in conjunction with the video. Both answer viewer questions, provide group discussion points and explain in more detail the accident process theory. These invaluable support materials will make Decide to Return a worthy part of any outdoor training program. 

ACA members don't forget to login to your account to receive your member discount on your purchase.

Submit Your Nomination for the Next ACA Instructor of the Month

Do you know any ACA Instructors who deserve recognition for their stellar teaching abilities? 

The ACA is proud to partner with Kokatat for the ACA Instructor of the Month program. This program recognizes instructors who are steadfast in their commitment to promote the ACA's golden standard of paddlesport safety and education. 

Each Instructor of the Month will be featured in the Journal of Paddlesport Education and will receive a Kokatat PFD.

Nominate your favorite instructor today!

What Do You Want From a Paddling App?

If you have a few minutes to spare this holiday weekend, we'd love to get your input on the ACA mobile app that's currently in the works.

Take our online survey and tell us what you think. Your opinions will help us make this mobile app a relevant tool for paddlers everywhere. 

Thank you. And have a wonderful weekend!

Save the Date: SEIC Meeting!

The next ACA Safety Education & Instruction Council (SEIC) meeting is scheduled for February 21st, 2014 in Columbus, Georgia. 

This is a great opportunity to make a difference in paddlesports education on a local, regional, and national level. There is no cost to attend the meeting, and all ACA instructors and other members of the paddling community are encouraged to participate! Learn more...