For avid kayakers, there’s no need to stop paddling when the weather turns frigid. But for those who choose to go out on the water, there are precautions that must be taken during these freezing times.

Veteran kayakers say that while winter paddling can provide solitude, exercise and an opportunity to see some amazing winter beauty, it must be done with safety in mind.

Novice paddlers often times fail to realize that although temperatures may be above average right now, the water is still dangerously cold and you must be prepared.

It’s strongly advised that kayakers dress for cold water temperatures, not the air and expect to go into the water.

A wet or dry suit is a must, veterans say, and one should dress in layers that can be removed. It’s logical that one has the right gear and understands the stages of hypothermia, which is crucial for remaining safe.

And above all, anyone taking to the water should always wear a life jacket.

In addition, it’s almost mandatory to have good boat handling, control skills and understand how to navigate around hazards. This is especially important in winter when water becomes cold and deadly.

Here are seven safety tips for paddling in cold weather:

• Always wear a life jacket. Not only does the life jacket keep your head above water, it helps to keep your core organs warmer.

• Dress for the water temperature, not the air. Expect to go into the water. A wet suit or dry suit is a must. Dress in layers so you can peel a layer off if you get overheated.

• Consider seeking formal instruction to improve boat control skills before heading out in cold water.

• Stay away from strainers, wood/branch piles that can pull a paddler under. These are usually found on outside river bends where the current is going. These are deadly hazards and must be avoided.

• Don’t paddle alone. Especially in winter, use a buddy system. Go with a small group if possible and identify who has the most experience and then evaluate your group.

• Bring along a dry bag with extra clothing. Another priority: always have a set or two of dry clothing that you can change into should you get wet. Get out of wet clothing as soon as possible.

• File a float plan. It’s as simple as letting someone know where you are paddling and when you expect to return.

Heeding these suggestions will allow you to enjoy winter on the water. And enjoy it problem free.

NRA’S GREAT AMERICAN

OUTDOORS SHOW

With another colossal outdoor show coming to the Farm Show Arena Feb. 6-14, you may wonder what happens to some of the funds generated by what we use to call the “Harrisburg Show?”

Well, the NRA has donated $50,000 to several central Pennsylvania organizations who promote the outdoor lifestyle through educational and recreational activities.

The 2016 donation, says the NRA, is a follow up to the donation of a $50,000 fully equipped police cruiser to the Harrisburg Police Department in 2015.

Donations were made through the NRA Foundation, America’s leading charitable organization, in support of the shooting sports with the National Civil War Museum being one recipient as well as the Smithsonian Institution.

Three other groups benefiting from NRA donations are All 4 Kids Hunting, that’s dedicated to inspiring and educating youth on wildlife conservation through a safe introduction to hunting; LEEK Hunting and Mountain Preserve, which facilitates outdoor recreational opportunities for wounded veterans; and, Camo Cares, an annual recreational event that raises funds to send children with life-threatening illnesses and wounded veterans on hunts.

For more information on the outdoor show check www.greatamericanoutdoorshow.org.