This is borrowed from the American Canoe Association:
Pre-Trip Planning:
Know the waters to be paddled. River guide booklets and
topography maps are valuable references in trip planning. Check
where you're going on satellite maps online. Plan alternate routes.
Check an online gauge if possible. This is the one for the
Ghost:
WOLF RIVER
AT LAGRANGE, TN
Consider time and distance.
Arrange for the shuttle.
Equipment -What you take with you on a trip is all that you have
to survive and rescue yourself. This includes water, food, maps and
charts, rescue equipment and extra clothes.
File a float plan with someone who will notify others if you
don’t return on time.
Paddle within your, and your group’s, limits.
Be a competent swimmer with the ability to handle oneself
underwater, moving water, surf or current.
Have a properly fitted lifejacket (Personal Flotation Device -
PFD), and WEAR IT!
Keep the craft under control.
Do not enter a rapid unless reasonably sure you can navigate it
or swim the entire rapid in case you capsize.
Keep a lookout for hazards and avoid them.
Carry a spare paddle.
Always dress for the unexpected flip. In cold weather be aware
of hypothermia.
Be a friend and carry two changes of warm clothing. Matches or a
lighter, and some firestarters are a must too.
Wear a hat or helmet. A rule of thumb is that if you wear a
spray skirt, wear a helmet
Carry a compass or GPS.
Carry a whistle or sound signaling device.(Marco Polo only works
so well)
Carry throw bags and other rescue gear.
Carry a “river” knife.
Know your emotional and physical limitations.
Group members need to constantly assess the behavior of others
in their group.
Respect the rights of anglers and land owners when paddling.
Know the conditions.
For Flatwater:
Remember to watch for water and weather changes. Some flatwater can
be as dangerous as a class II-III whitewater due to swiftness,
strainers, and portages. Getting in and out of a kayak is where a
lot of swims take place. (I know)
Keep an eye out for other boat traffic.
Pay attention to all safety warnings.
Be sure you are visible.
For Whitewater and Rivers:
Stay on the inside of bends - Beware of strainers! Strainers are
fallen trees; bridge pilings, undercut rocks or anything else that
allows the current to flow through it while holding you. Strainers
are deadly.
Walk around low-head dams.
Watch for hydraulics - Looking downstream, if a hole is
“smiling” it is probably friendly. If it’s
“frowning”, it is probably unfriendly.
If in doubt, get out and scout!