Labeling our kayaks and canoes is a small thing, but it can help to avoid big problems.

Kayaks and canoes that go adrift can trigger the Coast Guard and other marine patrollers to initiate a missing boater search. This costs a lot – not just monetarily but emotionally as well.

Very easy to avoid, simply labeling your kayak and/or canoe, as well as your other paddling gear such as your PFD, paddles, etc. can help prevent any turmoil should they go adrift.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxillary has introduced “Operation Paddle Smart” through their “Vessel Safety Check” program in many locations around the country, here’s what it is all about:

The Vessel Safety Check is a complimentary check of your boat conducted by members of the Auxiliary, confirming that it meets both federal and state requirements for safety.

No citations are issued and the results of the safety check are not reported to any enforcement agency, but a decal is awarded to display if the vessel has passed the examination.

An example of some of the items checked include:

• Life Jackets
• Registration and numbering
• Navigation lights
• Ventilation
• Fire extinguishers
• Distress signals (flares, horn, etc.)
• Battery cover and connections

All of these items are currently required by state and federal laws and, if missing or non-operating, can result in a citation if your vessel is inspected by the Coast Guard.

The Vessel Safety Check gives you a risk-free way to check that you meet the legal minimums and to potentially avoid a citation later.

You can contact your local USCG station to see what they offer – many have waterproof stickers with space for you to write your name, address and phone number. For more info, visit: http://www.cgaux.org/vsc/

Or do it yourself – just write out your name, address and phone number in the cockpit of your kayak or canoe with an waterproof marker. Doesn’t get much easier than that! But imagine how much time, money and man-power simply labeling your kayak or canoe can save.

BornToPaddle.com has just lauched Paddle Talk. Paddle Talk is a forum for kayakers and canoers to share any and all paddling experiences !

Anyone selling kayak or canoe boats and equipment can write their own classified add – free of charge!

Anyone promoting an kayak or canoe event or race can write their own promotion – also free of charge!

We want to bring together our community of paddling enthusiasts, so no matter what you paddle skill level, give Paddle Talk a try.

Take a look, sign up and start the conversation! Click here to go to Paddle Talk.