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Automatic team sign up is not enabled for this opportunity. Contact July Lewis at volunteer@savebay.org if you would like to register a team!
The Save The Bay Safety Paddlers is a group of experienced kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders who act as an additional safety layer around swimmers and kayakers along the 2-mile course from the Newport Naval Station to Potter Cove in Jamestown. Stand up paddleboards will be stationed at Potter Cove and Taylor Point, while kayakers will spread out along the entire course. Safety Squad members watch for swimmers who may need assistance and serve as extra eyes on the water. Check-in and orientation for the Safety Paddlers will be on the Jamestown beach. Detailed instructions and protocol are available here and will be gone over in advance at our training session. Requirements:
- Must be a very experienced and seasoned kayaker or stand-up paddleboarder.
- Must provide your own kayak/board and safety equipment (flotation, etc.).
- Attend a Zoom information and training session on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, 5:30 PM. (the training will be recorded for anyone who can't make the event)
Safety Paddler members must have an emergency contact who is not a swimmer, kayaker, or safety squad member. Please indicate your emergency contact (name and phone number) in the notes when you register, OR edit your profile to add it yourself.
Please direct all questions concerning requirements to Events Manager Leanne Danielsen at ldanielsen@savebay.org. Leanne Danielsen will contact you to discuss your participation.
***BY REGISTERING TO PARTICIPATE IN THE SAFETY SQUAD, YOU CONFIRM THAT YOU MEET THE ABOVE REQUIREMENTS, INCLUDING EXPERIENCE WITH KAYAKING OR STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING***
Required equipment for Safety Paddlers:
- KAYAKERS: Sea-worthy 9.5' (minimum) sea kayak or sit-on-top kayak with a paddle (No tandem kayaks permitted)
- 1 life jacket (worn by paddler) and one extra. (Save The Bay may be able to provide the extra life jacket or PFD, please ask).
- Whistle/signaling device (Save The Bay has extras of these)
Strongly Recommended Equipment:
- Paddle float and pump (if there is a cockpit)
- Spray skirt (if there is a cockpit)
- Paddle leash (or other means of attaching paddle)
- Water Bottles
We have many volunteer roles at The Swim! To view the full list, visit the Swim Volunteer Page.
Any questions or difficulty registering? Contact July Lewis at volunteer@savebay.org We want you on our team!
