Canoeing
2018 Requirements
- Do the following:
a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in canoeing activities and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards.
*capsizing
"STAY LOW - do not stand up or walk in your canoe when you are away from shore.
ALWAYS WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET - you never know when you might fall out or tip over unexpectedly.
AVOID SUDDEN OR JERKY MOVEMENTS - rocking from side to side could cause the canoe to tip over.
ALWAYS SIT ON THE SEATS OR IN THE CENTER OF THE CANOE - sitting on the side of a canoe will cause it to tip over.
DO NOT CANOE IN BAD WEATHER.
IF YOUR CANOE TIPS OVER:
DON'T PANIC
STAY WITH YOUR CANOE
PADDLE OR PUSH YOUR CANOE TO SHORE - with the help of the other person in your canoe, you can get out in shallow water and flip the canoe to dump out the water and climb in. Your canoe will float even if its full of water until you can get to shore to empty it.
ALWAYS BRING ALONG EXTRA CLOTHING IN A WATERPROOF CONTAINER- you want to be prepared in case your canoe tips or the weather changes."
--Resource 1A
*storms
"DO NOT CANOE IN BAD WEATHER."
--Resource 1A
*branches & underwater obstructions
"STAY AWAY FROM LOW HANGING TREES AND BRANCHES NEAR THE SHORE."
--Resource 1A
Be observant for rocks or other obstructions in the path.
*sunburn
"Avoiding sunburn can be accomplished in a number of ways. In some situations, clothing can provide the majority of sun protection. When sun exposure is unavoidable, a high SPF sunblock is important. Most experts recommend that sunblock be applied in advance of sun exposure."
--Resource 1B
*bug bites
mosquito repellent
*equipment loss
"TIE ALL YOUR EQUIPMENT TO THE CANOE - put your equipment into a waterproof bag to keep it dry and tie it to one of the center beams in the canoe so that you don't lose everything if your canoe tips over."
--Resource 1A
Resource 1A: http://eekwi.org/nature/camp/canoesafety.htm Archived
Resource 1B: http://www.kayaking-north-america.com/2011/0_6/14/kayaking-dangers/ Archived
b. Review prevention, symptoms, and first-aid treatment for the following injuries or illnesses that could occur while canoeing: blisters, cold-water shock and hypothermia, dehydration, heat-related illnesses, sunburn, sprains, and strains.
First-Aid Resource
c. Discuss the BSA Safety Afloat policy. Tell how it applies to canoeing activities.
"The 9 Points of Safety Afloat
1. Qualified Supervision
2. Physical Fitness
3. Swimming Ability
4. PFD (Personal floatation device, life-jacket)
5. Buddy System
6. Skill Proficiency
7. Planning
8. Equipment
9. Discipline"
Source: http://usscouts.org/usscouts/safety/SafetyAfloat.pdf - Before doing the following requirements, successfully complete the BSA swimmer test: Jump feetfirst into water over the head in depth. Level off and swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: sidestroke, breaststroke, trudgen, or crawl; then swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke. The 100 yards must be completed in one swim without stops and must include at least one sharp turn. After completing the swim, rest by floating.
- Do the following:
a. Name and point out the major parts of a canoe.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/i0n4KsRrYG8?rel=0 Parts of a Canoe / Paddle and Strokes, Northern Tier
http://www.paddling.net/guidelines/showArticle.html?9 Archived
Screenshot from slide 18 from authorstream.com/Presentation/Boyscouts-2256548-canoeing-merit-badge
"Parts of a Canoe
The body of the canoe is the hull. The front end is called the bow, and the back end is called the stern. Each end is covered with a triangular reinforcement called a deck plate. Ropes attached to the bow and stern are called painters.
Amidships is the midsection of the canoe. The length of a canoe spans from the tip of the bow to the tip of the stern, and the width of the canoe at amidships is its beam. The length of the hull that comes in contact with the water is the waterline. Gunwales (pronounced “gunnels”) are rails that run along the top edge of both sides of the canoe. Gunwales add strength to the hull and help it keep its shape. Braces, called thwarts (pronounced “ thorts ”), span the width of the canoe and provide rigidity and support. Some canoes also have a keel, a ridge that runs the length of the bottom of the canoe along its center line. A keel improves a canoe’s ability to travel in a straight line but hinders its ability to turn. A portage yoke allows you to carry a canoe upside down on your shoulders. It can be built into the canoe and serve as an additional thwart, or it can be detachable. "
source: authorstream.com/Presentation/Boyscouts-2256548-canoeing-merit-badge PPT archive
b. Describe how the length and shape of a canoe affect its performance.
https://troop368.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/canoeing-merit-badge-require_ment-5.pdf Archived
c. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different materials used to make canoes.
same as above - Do the following:
a. Name and point out the parts of a paddle. Explain the difference between a straight and bent-shaft paddle and when each is best used.
same as above
b. Demonstrate how to correctly size a paddle for a paddler in a sitting position and a kneeling position.
same as above - Do the following:
a. Discuss with your counselor the characteristics of life jackets most appropriate for canoeing and tell why a life jacket must always be worn while paddling.
"A PFD should be snug and fit like a glove, yet allow you to move freely and not chafe while paddling and playing."
"A personal flotation device—also known as a PFD, life jacket or life vest—gives you more buoyancy to help stay afloat. The most important advice about PFDs is simply this: Be sure to wear one. Most states require boaters to have a PFD that is U.S. Coast Guard approved, the proper size for the wearer, in good condition and readily accessible. Laws vary by state, but the USCG recommends anyone operating a human-powered watercraft wear a PFD while in a vessel."
source: http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/personal-flotation-device.html Archived
b. Demonstrate how to select and properly fit the correct size life jacket.
"Sizing: For adults, your chest size—not your weight—will determine what size is right. (For children, their weight will determine the size.) "
"Fitting: Once you've selected a size, follow these fitting steps.
-Loosen all the straps, put the PFD on and zip it up.
-Start at the waist and tighten all the straps. If it has shoulder straps, tighten them last. It should feel snug but not uncomfortable.
-Next, have someone pull up on the PFD shoulders. If it moves up past your nose or head, tighten the straps. If it still moves up, the PFD is too large.
-Check your movements to make sure it is comfortable and will not chafe you while paddling. Do this in your own kayak or canoe at home, or in a floor model if at an REI store. This will stimulate how it feels while sitting.
-If possible, test your PFD in a pool or shallow water to see how it works. It should not ride up or slip over your chin while floating."
source: http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/personal-flotation-device.html Archive - Discuss with your counselor the general care and maintenance of canoes, paddles, and other canoeing equipment.
"Flip your canoe over and drain any accumulated water when you are finished canoeing. Store it indoors if possible, out of direct sunlight, at least two feet off the ground. If you can, store it upside down, with the gunwales resting on sawhorses spaced six feet apart. Periodically clean the canoe to remove dirt and foreign material. Check bolts or screws annually and tighten as needed. Apply marine‐grade oil to wood surfaces."
source: https://troop368.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/canoeing-merit-badge-requirement-5.pdf Pg 3
"PFD Care and Maintenance Proper care and storage of PFDs is essential. Allow your PFD to drip dry, and store it in a well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight causes the fabric to fade and the flotation material to weaken. Never use a PFD as a kneeling pad or seat cushion in a canoe, and never cut or alter your PFD. This includes gluing or sewing patches on the fabric that covers the flotation material. Finally, do not repair tears or holes in the material. If the fabric is ripped or if buckles are missing, replace the PFD.
Store canoes out of the water and upside down in a covered area away from direct sunlight and extreme heat or cold. Do not store canoes with wooden gunwales on the ground. To prevent damage, do not drag a canoe across the ground or run it up onto the shore or into trees or rocks. Make sure to wipe sand, mud, and other debris out of the canoe after each trip, and make repairs as needed. Oil wooden gunwales, seats, and thwarts of a canoe at least twice a year. The tip of a paddle is easy to damage. To prevent damage to the tip, never rest the paddle on its tip on the ground or use the tip to push away from the shore or rocks. Also, avoid throwing paddles into a vehicle or trailer. When not in use, hang paddles away from direct sunlight and extreme heat or cold. Make sure they have been wiped clean."
source: authorstream.com/Presentation/Boyscouts-2256548-canoeing-merit-badge slides 35-36
Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/FPVAU5cpj88?rel=0 Canoe Care & Maintenance, CanoeingTV - Do the following:
a. Discuss what personal and group equipment would be appropriate for a canoe camping trip. Describe how personal and group equipment can be packed and protected from water.
http://www.rei.com/content/dam/documents/pdf/checklist-canoe-multiday-touring.pdf
List of gear suggestions: "Tent & groundcloth Flashlight Extra batteries Ziplock bags Garbage bags Small shovel Cooler Sleeping bag & pad Pillow Maps Backpack First aid kit Toiletries Small stove Multitool Matches or lighter Firestarter Dry bags Dry boxes Small folding chair Extra clothes Compass Water purifier Rope Duct tape Lantern / headlamp Daypack Cooking gear"
screenshot source: https://troop368.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/canoeing-merit-badge-requirement-5.pdf Pg 3
"Watertight or waterproof containers keep food, sleeping bags, and other items dry. Dry bags are extremely durable. They are made from a heavy plastic and generally have a roll-up watertight closure and shoulder straps and hip belts for portaging. A Duluth pack is made from water-resistant fabric but does not have the watertight seal of a dry bag. Other good waterproof containers include 5-gallon resealable buckets and waterproof map cases. Simple plastic bags such as resealable freezer bags and heavy-duty garbage bags work well, too. When using garbage bags, double-bag all items and close the bags with a thick rubber band. Then place the garbage bags in a duffel bag, stuff sack, or other container to protect the bag from being punctured or torn."
source: authorstream.com/Presentation/Boyscouts-2256548-canoeing-merit-badge slide 39
b. Using the containers and packs from requirement 7a, demonstrate how to load and secure the containers and other equipment in the canoe.
"How much a canoe can hold is based on its length, height, and width. The U.S. Coast Guard measures capacity by loading a boat until it has 6 inches of freeboard—the distance between the water surface and the gunwales. A canoe should never be loaded so heavy that less than 6 inches of freeboard remains or loaded beyond the manufacturer’s suggested weight limit. If a canoe is balanced in the water from end to end and side to side, it is said to be trim. If your canoe is not trim, it will be unstable and difficult to maneuver. A good way to judge the trim of your canoe is to take a step back and look at the loaded canoe from the front and side. Make adjustments as necessary to ensure that your canoe is trim."
"When packing your canoe, place everything that must stay dry in a waterproof container. Secure all items to the canoe so that nothing will fall out. Try to fit dry bags or Duluth packs under the thwarts and clip the straps to them. Use cam straps, bungee cords, and pieces of rope to secure items. Secure your equipment so that if the canoe were to capsize the equipment would not fall out past the gunwales."
source: authorstream.com/Presentation/Boyscouts-2256548-canoeing-merit-badge slide 40-41
c. Using appropriate knots, including a trucker’s hitch, tautline hitch, and bowline, demonstrate how to secure a canoe to a vehicle or a trailer, or if these are not available, a rack on land.
video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/TIjqJQ1nTV0?rel=0
trucker's hitch: https://www.youtube.com/embed/amsdd9VQOVw?rel=0
bowline: https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q9NqGd7464U?rel=0
tautline: https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rv2GhpeXav8?rel=0
see also: http://www.scoutmasterbucky.com/Scoutmaster-Bucky-Merit-Badges-Canoeing-ClassPrep.htm Archived - With a companion, use a properly equipped canoe to demonstrate the following:
a. Safely carry and launch the canoe from a dock or shore (both, if possible).
b. Safely land the canoe on a dock or shore (both, if possible) and return it to its proper storage location.
c. Demonstrate kneeling and sitting positions in a canoe and explain the proper use for each position.
d. Change places while afloat in the canoe.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/5lyRGXJsaGA?rel=0 Should you Kneel or Sit in a Canoe, CanoeingTV
Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/78qqDqUIX20?rel=0 How to Launch and Land a Canoe Smoothly and Safely
PDF resource taken from http://clsr.samoset.org/staff/MBSyllabi/Canoeing.pdf pages 11-12 Archived
How to flip a canoe (for b): https://www.youtube.com/embed/VUI_OEwRQoo?rel=0 taken from Northern Tier videos. - With a companion, use a properly equipped canoe to demonstrate the following:
a. In deep water, exit the canoe and get back in without capsizing.
b. Safely perform a controlled capsize of the canoe and demonstrate how staying with a capsized canoe will support both paddlers.
c. Swim, tow, or push a swamped canoe 50 feet to shallow water. In the shallow water, empty the swamped canoe and reenter it.
d. In deep water, rescue a swamped canoe and its paddlers by emptying the swamped canoe and helping the paddlers safely reenter their boat without capsizing.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/oUW1bBWIbkE?rel=0 The Canoe over Canoe Rescue, CanoeingTV
Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/guDmxl4kVsU?rel=0 Start at 50 seconds for (a) --how to get in the canoe
PDF resource taken from http://clsr.samoset.org/staff/MBSyllabi/Canoeing.pdf pages 13-16 - With a companion, use a properly equipped canoe to demonstrate the following paddling strokes as both a bow and stern paddler:
a. Forward stroke
b. Backstroke
c. Draw
d. Pushaway
e. Forward sweep
f. Reverse sweep
For stern paddling only:
g. J-stroke
h. Rudder stroke
i. Stern pry
Paddle strokes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canoe_paddle_strokes Archived
Note: Rudder stroke = Goon stroke in the above article
PDF resource taken from http://clsr.samoset.org/staff/MBSyllabi/Canoeing.pdf pages 16-19
J-Stroke: https://www.youtube.com/embed/kSOu0jyuqN8?rel=0 from Canoeing TV
Parts of a Canoe / Paddle and Strokes: https://www.youtube.com/embed/i0n4KsRrYG8?rel=0 from Northern Tier
Rudder Stroke: https://www.youtube.com/embed/PHTcm3DSvnM?rel=0
Canoeing Sweep Strokes: https://www.youtube.com/embed/JjDwaLTzzCc?rel=0
Stern pry: https://www.youtube.com/embed/11P7YHl_yfk?rel=0 https://www.youtube.com/embed/0NrMRCpM97Q?rel=0 - Using the strokes in requirement 10, and in an order determined by your counselor, use a properly equipped canoe to demonstrate the following tandem maneuvers while paddling on opposite sides and without changing sides. Each paddler must demonstrate these maneuvers in both the bow and stern and on opposite paddling sides:
a. Pivot or spin the canoe in either direction.
b. Move the canoe sideways or abeam in either direction.
c. Stop the canoe.
d. Move the canoe in a straight line for 50 yards.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ytf5LMCkKwk?rel=0 Pivot Turns - Maneuvering a Canoe, CanoeingTV
PDF resource taken from http://clsr.samoset.org/staff/MBSyllabi/Canoeing.pdf pages 16-24 - Use a properly equipped canoe to demonstrate solo canoe handling:
a. Launch from shore or a pier (both, if possible).
b. Using a single-blade paddle and paddling only on one side, demonstrate proper form and use of the forward stroke, backstroke, draw stroke, pushaway stroke, forward sweep, reverse sweep, and J-stroke. Repeat while paddling on the other side.
c. Using a single-blade paddle and paddling only on one side, demonstrate proper form and use of a combination of a forward stroke, rudder stroke, and stern pry by canoeing to a target 50 yards away. Repeat while paddling on the other side.
d. Make a proper landing at a dock or shore (both, if possible). Store canoe properly (with assistance, if needed). - Discuss the following types of canoeing:
a. Olympic canoe sprint
b. Flatwater and river touring
c. Outrigger
d. Marathon
e. Freestyle
f. Whitewater
g. Canoe poling
See the PDF resource from #11
For 11-13, see also authorstream.com/Presentation/Boyscouts-2256548-canoeing-merit-badge starting at about slide 78
For additional learning:
- Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/UbeaCK3gucA?rel=0 The Shake Out - How to Empty a Swamped Canoe From The Water
- CanoeTV videos: https://www.youtube.com/user/CanoeingTV/videos?shelf_id=2&view=0&sort=dd
- Video: Introduction to Canoeing https://www.youtube.com/embed/UGqiwcIDOgQ?rel=0 37 min, InCharge DIY
- Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/cyJHA_jrzaI?rel=0 Canoe strokes and control, Rolf Kraiker
- Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/PfgQ39fA4f4?rel=0 How to Steer a Canoe, CanoeingTV