The goal of this event is to equip kayakers and other paddlecraft owners with all the necessary safety information. Free vessel safety exams will also be provided, which ensures that your kayak will comply with local, federal and state requirements. The session will also include safety tips, a short paddling safety presentation and free safety whistles and "if found" decals will be handed out.

"There are more than 7.4 million paddlecraft--canoes, kayaks, rafts, and paddleboards in the US and the number is growing by more than 120,000 per year. Unfortunately, with that growth in the sport, we've seen a dramatic increase in the number of serious and fatal incidents." said Don Goff, Senior Advisor, Paddlecraft Safety, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, “In 2010, paddlecraft fatalities were 30% of all recreational boating deaths.”

When: Sunday, April 30, 2017 10:00 / 11:00 to 3:00

Opens 10:00 a.m. for Izaak Walton League members

11:00 a.m. open to the public

Where: Izaak Walton League Rockville Chapter House

18301 Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD 20874

All paddlecraft are welcome for a free safety check, including kayaks, canoes, SUPs, rowboats, etc. Both rigid and inflatables can be inspected. Hope to see you there!

For questions concerning the event, contact Flotilla Commander Dion Mulvihill, Flotilla 054-24-01 at 240-477-6425 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For over 60 years, tens-of-thousands of men and women of the Coast Guard Auxiliary have spent millions of volunteer hours helping the Coast Guard carry out its missions. For more information on America’s Volunteer Lifesavers, visit our website at: http://www.cgaux.org/