{"alias":"blogEntry","byline":"Lauren Woodley, Creative Copywriter","standfirst":"","content":{"layouts":[{"type":"singleColumn","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EPick up your paddles, put on your helmets and ready your rafts. The summer is a great time to try paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing - and even more fun to do with friends!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou could count the hours paddling towards the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/staged-badges/time-on-the-water/\u0022\u003ETime On The Water \u003C/a\u003EStaged Activity Badges, or just take part for fun. You may want to do \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/kayaking/\u0022\u003Ekayaking\u003C/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022/activities/stand-up-paddleboarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Stand-up paddleboarding\u0022\u003Estand up paddleboarding\u003C/a\u003E, \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/traditional-rafting/\u0022\u003Eraft building\u003C/a\u003E,\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/canoeing/\u0022\u003Ecanoeing\u003C/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;or \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/?category=Adventure\u0026amp;setting=On%20water\u0026amp;setting=In%20water\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022?category=Adventure\u0026amp;setting=On%20water\u0026amp;setting=In%20water\u0022\u003Esomething else\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EAlways take a look at our \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/\u0022 title=\u0022General Activity Guidance\u0022\u003Esafety guidance\u003C/a\u003E to\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E \u003C/span\u003Estay safe before having lots of fun in or on the water.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"gridImageBlock","gtmId":"gtmId","gtmClass":"gtmClass","image":"/media/k04b3xar/an-explorer-knelt-on-a-paddleboard-and-smiling-shes-holding-the-paddle-and-looking-to-the-right-shes-wearing-shorts-and-a-bright-orange-and-yellow-life-jacketmin.jpg","width":6846,"height":4564,"altText":"An Explorer knelt on a paddleboard on a lake. There\u0027s green trees and bushes in the background. She\u0027s wearing an orange and yellow life jacket, holding the paddle and looking to the right. She\u0027s smiling.","caption":"","link":null},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3 class=\u0022p3\u0022\u003EWarming up\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p3\u0022\u003EWhen preparing for a water sport activity, it\u0027s important to make sure everyone knows how to keep safe around water and\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/warm-muscles/\u0022\u003Ewarms up\u003C/a\u003E their muscles\u00A0gradually to avoid injury. At the end of the session, make sure to warm down by slowing down and stretching again soon after getting out of the water.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p3\u0022\u003EBe careful when warming up beside water, such as slope or riverbank, to make sure it\u2019s a dry, safe surface to stand on to avoid any slips or trips. You could choose a separate area to warm up in.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3 class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EGetting on the water\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003EAlways use our \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s2\u0022\u003Ewater sport activity guidance\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/span\u003E for the specific water sport you want to take part in. You may need an adventurous activities permit. You can check which activities need a permit in \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/#9.7\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#9.7\u0022\u003EPOR 9.7\u003C/a\u003E and on the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/?category=Adventure\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022?category=Adventure\u0022\u003EScouts activity finder\u003C/a\u003E. For example, if you choose rafting or rafting building, remember it\u2019s a \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/activity-permit-scheme/\u0022\u003Epermitted activity\u003C/a\u003E.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019re using an outdoor activity centre, make sure the instructors have the\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/rule-96-use-of-external-centres-and-instructors/\u0022\u003Eright permits, qualifications and risk assessments\u003C/a\u003E in place, as well as facilities that cater for everyone in your group.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EHere are some tips before you start:\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul class=\u0022ul1\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003EThe instructor must make sure\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/general-water-activities/boat-checking/\u0022 title=\u0022Boat Checking\u0022\u003Eboats are seaworthy\u003C/a\u003E and there are regulations you must follow if you\u2019re\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/rule-9136-charter-vessels/\u0022 title=\u0022Rule 9.47 Charter Vessels\u0022\u003Ehiring a boat.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003EGive it a go in the warm and dry. Why not practice getting in, on and out the craft on dry land?\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EAlways have a firm grip on their paddle and make everyone is aware of the space around them.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EPractise tying knots before raft building - a raft is only as strong as its weakest knot.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EDon\u2019t wear your best shoes, as your feet will probably get wet. However, wellies aren\u2019t suitable for water sports.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003EBring a spare set of clothes, a towel and spare shoes to get you home.\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EMake sure to take time practising using the vessel, such as turning or reversing, before introducing games.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Ch3 class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EGames to play on the water\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EHere are some fantastic games to play in kayaks and canoes or on rafts.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EWhen you\u2019ve built your rafts, or learned to control your kayak or canoe, it\u2019s time to race!\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019re racing rafts, make sure the rafts are secure before you get stuck into the relays. It\u2019s much less fun if they fall to pieces straight away. You\u2019ll want to give people paddles, too.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EA relay is just a race between teams where people take it in turns to cover parts of the total distance. You can go back and forth across the same area: teams go from the start line to an agreed marker, then turn around and head back to the start line to tag a teammate in.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou don\u2019t even have to tag team members in. If everyone in each team fits on the raft to begin with, you can play without swapping who\u2019s on board.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EMake sure you have a starting line and a clear finishing line. To start, everyone should get on-board their raft or get into their watercraft.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EWhen everyone\u2019s ready, shout \u2018Go!\u2019 then see who makes it across the finish line first.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou could give out awards for good communication, teamwork, or perseverance.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019ve made the rafts yourself, you could award best design to whoever\u2019s raft stayed together the best. Or, you could award best sinking to the one which fell apart most spectacularly!\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Racing your rafts or watercraft"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EEither in kayaks, canoes or on rafts, teams could race to go round a set obstacle course.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf the water space you\u2019re using has any islands, buoys or other features, use these as markers the groups can paddle around.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019ve got enough adults joining in, you can use your own boats on the water to make obstacles as well.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou could demonstrate or explain the route to the teams.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou could also give them a map with the route to follow to help them practice their navigation skills - but remember to check they go the right way!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EEveryone could do it together, or you could do it as a relay, depending on the vessels you\u2019re using.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Obstacle course"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EScatter floating objects, such as balls or swimming noodles, around the water.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EEither in kayaks, canoes or on rafts, the teams should race to retrieve them one at a time, taking them back to an agreed spot to the side or on land.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EWhen everyone\u2019s ready, shout \u2018Go!\u2019 and the teams can start collecting the item, until they\u2019re collected.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou could give out awards for good communication, teamwork, or perseverance, as well as for the most items collected.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019ve made the rafts yourself, you could award best design to whoever\u2019s raft stayed together the best. Or, you could award best sinking to the one which fell apart most spectacularly!\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Raft, row and retrieve"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThis game is great for practising skills on the water, in whichever watercraft or boat you\u2019re using. Mark out and tell everyone the boundaries for the game.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EWhen everybody\u2019s out on the water in their craft, choose five members of the group to be the police. They could wear a sports vest or a Necker.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EEveryone else is a pirate. The pirates should spread out around across the water. They could wear pirate hats.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThe aim of the game is for the police to chase and capture the pirates. They can do this by \u2018jailing\u2019 the pirate\u2019s boats.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003ETo \u2018jail\u2019, police should touch the bow (front) or stern (back) of a pirate\u2019s boat with their hand, being careful not to trap your hand in the process.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EJailed pirates aren\u2019t allowed to move unless they\u2019re freed by other pirates.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003ETo alert fellow pirates they\u2019ve been jailed, they must shout \u2018Ahoy, matey!\u2019 and hold up their paddles or oars in the air.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EBoats are released when another pirate touches the bow or stern with their hand.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThe game can be played until all the pirates have been jailed, or until a suitable time to swap has passed and let everyone have a go at a different role.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Escape, me hearties!"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThis game\u2019s designed for kayaking. Everyone should learn the basics of kayaking first or have a practice session. Take a look at our guide to \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/kayaking/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003EKayaking\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E for more details.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EOn the water, everyone should form a large circle while still in their kayaks, with the noses of their boats facing inwards. The boats shouldn\u2019t be touching and should be wide enough apart to fit at least two kayaks in the middle of the circle.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThe person leading the game should then choose two players to paddle into the middle of the circle.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThe outside players should use their hands to throw a ball back and forth across the circle. They must pass it as soon as they\u2019ve caught it. They can only pass it across the circle and not to players on either side of them.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf they miss the ball and the ball is in the middle of the circle, the players forming the outside circle can carefully use their paddles to try to retrieve it. They mustn\u2019t break the circle to get the ball if it\u2019s in the middle.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EMeanwhile, the people in the middle should try to steal the ball. They could lift their paddles to intercept it, or race to get missed balls from the middle before the outside players reach it.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0 \u003C/span\u003EPossession goes to the player that reaches it first.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EWhenever the players in the middle steal the ball, the outside player who touched it last should then join them. The number of players in the middle now becomes three, with the two original players staying in the middle.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIf the ball ends up outside the circle, players can break the circle to retrieve the ball and bring it back.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EKeep playing until about half of the group are in the middle. Then, the game can start over, letting other players have a chance to start in the middle.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EAlternatively, you can play this game a bit like \u2018piggy in the middle\u2019, so if a player in the middle catches the ball, they swap places with the person on the outside of the circle who touched the ball last.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Paddlers in the middle"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThis can be an excellent game for larger groups.\u00A0Ultimate kayak football or Frisbee\u00A0can be a great way to practice your skills, including your basic paddling strokes.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou\u2019ll need to identify and mark out the playing area, as well as two end zones. Use markers on land or buoys on the water to highlight the four corners of your playing area. You could use a net to mark out a goal, if you\u2019ve sufficient equipment.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EAround\u00A0six players or six boats\u00A0can work best for each team but you can have more or less depending on the size of the area you have.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThe ball is placed in the middle of the playing area. Each team starts the game on their own half of the playing area. The referee blows a whistle. Possession goes to the player that reaches the ball first.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EOnce the whistle is blown, the ball can be passed between team members by throwing.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou can\u2019t hold the ball while paddling, but you can dribble the ball in the water by throwing it in front of your kayak and paddling to it or by using your paddle to move it along.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EHowever, members of the opposite team can intercept a pass by using\u00A0their paddles\u00A0to block.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EA goal is scored when a player has gone into their end zone and catches the ball from another player in their team.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EAfter a goal has been scored, the ball is returned to the middle of the playing area. All players move away from the ball and the referee shouts \u2018Go!\u2019\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EPossession goes to the player that reaches it first and the next round begins.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou can decide how long to play for and you could play so the team with most points at the end, wins.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou could also play this game with a Frisbee for a game of kayak ultimate Frisbee. Just use a Frisbee instead of a ball!\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Kayak football or kayak Frisbee"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003ELeapfrog is a simple game that\u2019ll help people with vessel control and paddling.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EEveryone in the group needs to form a single line, with each kayak or canoe lined bow to stern in the water. It\u2019s best to stay still in this game, though to make it harder, everyone could stay in the line formation and slowly paddle.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EThe paddler at the back of the group should work their way to the front of the group to become the new leader.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EWhen the new leader is at the front, the paddler who\u2019s now at the back will begin to move up to the front of the group. Take turns to paddle to the front of the group and become the leader.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003ETo turn this game into a competition, you can create two or more groups to race each other. Whoever gets all of their paddlers through the line first is the winner. You could also have prizes for best effort, best teamwork or good cheerleading.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Kayak or Canoe Leapfrog"}]},{"type":"Promo","cta":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIt\u2019s important to be able to stop the game or communicate any safety issues as needed.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou need to have a clear plan to pause the game and get everyone\u2019s attention quickly and urgently. For example, you could use a bell or a whistle.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EAlternatively, you could have an emergency stop or freeze word that alerts everyone to stop. For example, if you shout \u2018Bananas\u2019 everyone should know to stop what they\u2019re doing and stay still.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#ffe627","title":"Find a way to emergency stop","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"gridImageBlock","gtmId":"gtmId","gtmClass":"gtmClass","image":"/media/21362/a-group-of-scouts-on-a-raft-theyre-holding-paddles-and-smiling.jpg","width":6000,"height":4000,"altText":"A Cub sits on a raft holding a paddle and smiling with other Cubs behind","caption":"","link":null},{"type":"Promo","cta":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EAll activities must be safely managed. Use the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/staying-safe-safety-checklist/staying-safe-leaders/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Esafety checklist\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;to help you plan and risk assess your activity. Complete a\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/risk-assessments/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Erisk assessment\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E and take appropriate steps to reduce risk.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EAlways get approval for the activity and have suitable \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safety/planning-and-assessing-risk/guidance-for-supervision-of-activities/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Esupervision\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;and an\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/intouch/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003EInTouch\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;process.\u003Cspan class=\u0022Apple-converted-space\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp;\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EMake sure you\u2019ll have \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/adult-to-young-people-ratios/\u0022 title=\u0022Adult to Young People ratios\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Eenough adult helpers\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E, especially if you\u2019re going away from the meeting place. You may need some parents and carers to help. Always make sure all young people and adults involved in the activity know how to take part safely.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EBe careful when doing activities with, in, or near water. For games and activities, it\u2019s best to survey the area beforehand so you can set appropriate boundaries and check for additional hazards, such as pool ladders, overhanging branches, risks of slips and trips or diving board access. Make sure to check surfaces and reduce the risk of slipping, where possible.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003ECheck the weather forecast before doing the activity outside. Make sure you have all the safety equipment you need and \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/motorised-water-activities/safety-boat-guidance/\u0022 title=\u0022Safety Boat Guidance\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Echeck it\u0027s in good condition\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EEveryone should be able to\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/rule-9131-all-water-activities/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Eswim 50m wearing the clothing or equipment for the activity\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E. Non-swimmers will need \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/9-activities/rule-913-water-based-activities/\u0022 title=\u0022Rule 9.13 Water based activities\u0022\u003Eadditional support\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EYou must always:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul class=\u0022ul1\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s2\u0022\u003ECheck the \u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003Egeneral activity guidance\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s2\u0022\u003E for your chosen activity, including the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Ewater sport activity guidance and Safety Boat Guidance.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003EComplete a\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/risk-assessments/\u0022\u003Erisk assessment\u003C/a\u003E and take appropriate steps to reduce risk.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003EHave the right\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/adult-to-young-people-ratios/\u0022\u003Eratios\u003C/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;of number of adults to supervise\u0026nbsp;\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003ESet up an\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/intouch/\u0022\u003EInTouch\u003C/a\u003E\u0026nbsp;plan\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safe-scouting-and-emergency-procedures/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003EKnow what to do in an emergency\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E and have an emergency stop plan in place.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li1\u0022\u003EShare information with parents and carers\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/activity-information-form/\u0022\u003Eusing the activity information form\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s4\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EGet \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/information-for-volunteers/general-activity-guidance-a-z/approving-activities-guidance-for-lead-volunteers/\u0022 title=\u0022Approving Activities - Guidance for Commissioners\u0022\u003Eapproval from your commissioner\u0026nbsp;\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s4\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003ECheck the weather forecast and sunset times before doing the activity outside\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s4\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EHave a responsible adult not directly involved to be a spotter and watch out for hazards or incidents\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s4\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EMake sure you have all the safety equipment you need and check it\u0027s in \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/motorised-water-activities/safety-boat-guidance/\u0022 title=\u0022Safety Boat Guidance\u0022\u003Egood condition\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s2\u0022\u003ETake a look at \u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/information-for-volunteers/general-activity-guidance-a-z/water-safety-waterborne-diseases-and-immersion/\u0022 title=\u0022Water safety (waterborne diseases and immersion)\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003Ewater safety for waterborne diseases\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s2\u0022\u003E and \u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/information-for-volunteers/general-activity-guidance-a-z/water-safety-buoyancy-aids-and-lifejackets/\u0022 title=\u0022Water safety (buoyancy aids and lifejackets)\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003Ewater safety with buoyancy aids and life-jackets\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s4\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003ECheck \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003EPOR 9.13\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E for water based activities, including supporting non-swimmers\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/rule-9137-activities-near-the-water/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003EBe sure to manage the group when near water\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s2\u0022\u003E, keeping everyone safe, including \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.rospa.com/RoSPAWeb/docs/advice-services/Leisure-Safety/groupsafety-watermargins.pdf\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Estaying safe at water margins and on the water\u2019s edge\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/rule-9133-classification-of-waters/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s3\u0022\u003EFind out about the classification of waters\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s2\u0022\u003E\u0026nbsp;and check the category of water, as this depends on how safe the water is.\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/waterways/\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003EUse our waterways directory to check.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li3\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022s4\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003EFind out about \u003Cspan class=\u0022s1\u0022\u003Etaking part in an\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/information-for-volunteers/general-activity-guidance-a-z/class-c-waters/\u0022 title=\u0022Class C Waters\u0022\u003E activity in Class C waters\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/span\u003E, such as a swimming pool, man-made bodies of water and small lakes\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003EIn Scouts, all members taking part in water activities, excluding swimming, scuba diving and snorkelling, must wear an EC or ISO approved buoyancy aid or life jacket. Remember, a buoyancy aid is to help you swim whereas a life jacket is designed to keep you afloat, without the need for swimming.\u003C/p\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#ffe627","title":"Staying safe on the water","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Promo","cta":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022p1\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHere are some handy links to our watersport activity guidance:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul class=\u0022ul1\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/general-water-activities/\u0022\u003EGeneral Water Activities | Scouts\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/swimming/\u0022\u003ESwimming activity guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/canoeing/\u0022 title=\u0022Canoeing\u0022\u003ECanoeing activity guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/kayaking/\u0022 title=\u0022Kayaking\u0022\u003EKayaking activity guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/traditional-rafting/\u0022 title=\u0022Traditional rafting\u0022\u003ERafting activity guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/stand-up-paddleboarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Stand-up paddleboarding\u0022\u003EStand-up paddle boarding activity guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EHere are some handy links to our water safety guidance:\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul class=\u0022ul1\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/general-water-activities/water-safety-waterborne-diseases-and-immersion/\u0022 title=\u0022Water safety (waterborne diseases and immersion)\u0022\u003EWater safety (waterborne diseases)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/general-water-activities/water-safety-buoyancy-aids-and-lifejackets/\u0022 title=\u0022Water safety (buoyancy aids and life jackets)\u0022\u003EWater safety (buoyancy aids and life-jackets)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/motorised-water-activities/safety-boat-guidance/\u0022 title=\u0022Safety Boat Guidance\u0022\u003ESafety Boat Guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/\u0022\u003EWater sport activity guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/por/9-activities/rule-9133-classification-of-waters/\u0022\u003EClassification of waters\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li3\u0022\u003ETaking part in an\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/general-water-activities/class-c-waters/\u0022 title=\u0022Class C Waters\u0022\u003Eactivity in Class C waters\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/span\u003E, such as a swimming pool, man-made bodies of water and small lakes\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022li2\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.rospa.com/RoSPAWeb/docs/advice-services/Leisure-Safety/groupsafety-watermargins.pdf\u0022\u003EStaying safe at water margins and on the water\u2019s edge\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#ffb4e5","title":"Water safety for every activity","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"searchDescription":null,"pageType":null,"location":null,"versionDate":"27 July 2023","reviewDate":null,"furtherReading":[{"caption":"","title":"General Activity Guidance","url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/general-activity-guidance/","newWindow":true},{"caption":"","title":"Activities on the water","url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/?setting=On%20water","newWindow":true},{"caption":"","title":"Activities in the water","url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/?setting=In%20water","newWindow":true}],"relatedLinks":[{"caption":"","title":"Time on the Water Staged Activity Badge","url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/staged-badges/time-on-the-water/","newWindow":true},{"caption":"","title":"Swimmer Staged Activity Badge","url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/staged-badges/swimmer/","newWindow":true},{"caption":"","title":"Find out more about the Activity Permit","url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/activity-permit-scheme/","newWindow":true}],"id":76171,"nodeName":"7 exciting water games for kayaking, canoeing and more","title":"7 exciting water games for kayaking, canoeing and more","type":"blogEntry","image":{"url":"/media/21362/a-group-of-scouts-on-a-raft-theyre-holding-paddles-and-smiling.jpg?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1db23b729096330","caption":"Beavers on a raft holding paddles and smiling","type":"jpg","size":8614402,"width":6000,"height":4000,"altText":"A Cub sits on a raft holding a paddle and smiling with other Cubs behind"},"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"7 exciting water games for kayaking, canoeing and more","headerSubTitle":null,"headerCta":null,"headerCtaText":null,"headerCtaLink":null,"headerBackgroundColour":null,"showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":null},"subHeader":"Pick up your paddles, put on your safety equipment and get ready to spend some time on the 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