Smart Start for Safe Paddling Certification Program
This certification program teaches basic safety and paddling knowledge, as well as simple rescue skills for canoe, kayak, and SUP. The training for this certification includes a base knowledge module (non-craft specific) plus three complementary modules that focus specifically on canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddling (SUP). This certification allows the facilitator to introduce paddlecraft safety and knowledge to the beginner paddler in a land-based setting.
This certification program was formerly known as “Paddlesports Safety Facilitator” and was officially re-branded as “Smart Start for Safe Paddling” in October 2025.
Email paul.clemmer@verizon.net to sign up for the class or to find out more details.
See the ACA resources in the following page to prepare for this course:
Smart Start For Safe Paddling - ACA
This is a hands-on, active participation course. Minimum age for certification is 16, and you must be a member of the American Canoe Association to be granted the official certification, which will be valid for 4 years. Certification is optional, and participants who just want an introduction to paddling are also welcome (younger paddlers may attend if with a responsible adult).
This is a rare opportunity to complete all 3 (canoe, kayak and SUP) on-water modules plus the general module in one day. You can bring your own craft and/or use ours at no extra cost. It's a great opportunity to try and compare different paddlecraft as you're developing the skills to help others get started paddling safely. In the General Module we'll cover the basics of paddling gear, planning, risks, safety and rescue concepts, paddling group facilitation, where to paddle and additional information. The afternoon will be spent on the water demonstrating basic boat handling, safety and rescue skills in kayaks, canoes and SUPs. We'll wrap up with a debrief and discussion about next steps in your paddling journey.
This class is for two types of paddlers: 1) those who already have basic paddling skills and want a credentialed certification and better skills for introducing basic paddling safety and knowledge to others (church, scout and camp leaders,etc.), and 2) anyone interested in developing their paddling knowledge and skills to help prevent problems and deal with unexpected challenges while paddling.
$75 per person Use of canoes, kayaks and SUPs included