Go? No? Go? Trip Checklist!

1. Check the weather - storm? precipitation? wind? Make sure to check both the current weather and forecast.  

• Remember that precipitation will make it feels colder than air temperature because you will be very wet.
• Strong wind/wave conditions not only make it difficult to paddle, it is also dangerous as it can cause the boat to capsize (tip over). 
• We don't always feel the effect of strong winds until we are on the water!
• If precipitation is too heavy or storms are expected, its a NO GO! 
• Check for fog and visibility hazards. If visibility is reduced, bring flashlights, or cancel the activity if visibility is too low. 

2. Check the temperature 

• In Vancouver, practices are cancelled if temperature is below 0°C. (Races are not held during winter.) 
• Make sure you are dressed for the temperature!
• In fact, it is always a good idea to wear more thin layers even if it seems to be warm. This way if it gets too warm you can take off some layers and still enjoy the time.

3. Make sure you are dressed for the weather

• This includes water-proof sunscreen (always!), long sleeves (always!), hats, ColdGear.
• Life jacket is a MUST. 

4. Before leaving the shore, make sure the boat is in good conditions.

• Damage on the boat exterior may affect balance as well as the boat's ability to withstand waves.

5. Bring water (and food) if needed. 

• Dragon boat is definitely an energy-consuming activity that will make you sweat a lot. 

http://dieselfishdragonboat.blogspot.com/2015/05/dragon-boat-gear-essentials.html

Photo: DieselFish. Nov 18th, 2018