cold(ish)-water paddling rescues lesson

Meet at 5:00PM at the indoor, lower door to Hoofer Boathouse (outside of the Mendota Lodge, across the hallway from the Outdoor UW Office), on the lower level of Memorial Union. 

This is an informal, low-risk setting to practice canoe and kayak rescues in cold(ish) water. We can practice t-rescues of tandem canoes, kayak rolls and re-entries, etc. 

Yes, we will actually get WET and tip over boats in the lake! 

The water temperature will be cold-ish, but not super-cold... it's likely be below 60 degrees F, but not likely to be below 50 (you can check live water temp here: https://uwpd.wisc.edu/services/lake-rescue-safety/). 

Hoofers offers wetsuits and semi-dry paddling tops, which we can put to the test. 

WHAT TO BRING: 

A swimsuit is a good base layer to try beneath a Hoofer wetsuit. 

Bring clothing that you're willing to get wet. Bring the layers you would like to test! Here's a suggested layering scheme: 

• Wicking Base layer against the skin: polypropylene base layers, wool, etc.  

• Close-fitting insulation, could include neoprene 

• Loose-fitting insulation (for instance, a polar fleece); a loose fit will trap air pockets 

• Water resistant or waterproof wind blocker (e.g., dry top or Paddle jacket or dry suit)

Bring closed-toe shoes that will stay on your feet in the water. 

Bring a change of dry clothes, including dry shoes, and a towel for changing.  

If the wind is very strong, or a storm is imminent, this event may be cancelled.