Program Support volunteers are critical in ensuring we can provide high-quality, engaging programming to the public. These volunteers assist with a variety of tasks including set up, tear down, registration, and program education. Safety Boaters support our Try Paddlesports programs and our Try Paddlesports area at the annual Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience by serving as an extra set of eyes on the water to ensure participant safety. These volunteers may also support our flat water floats over the following 12 months before needing to retrain on the necessary skills. Prior paddling experience and completion of Five Rivers MetroParks Safety Boater Training is required to volunteer as a Safety Boater.
Safety Boater training is being offered on June 10 from 6 pm to 8 pm at Eastwood MetroPark's Blue Lake. View a map of the park here to find the training location. Previous Five Rivers MetroParks Safety Boaters should plan to attend for annual check-off as well as anyone interested in serving as a Safety Boater.
During this training:
- Demonstrations and practice of multiple methods of on-water rescue
- Become familiar with equipment and resources
- Review paddle stoke instruction
After the successful completion of this training, qualified Safety Boaters should feel comfortable and capable of facilitating a rescue for a capsized participant. Safety Boaters may also feel comfortable recognizing participants who are struggling with maneuvering their boats and providing pointers on paddling techniques.
DO YOU QUALIFY? This opportunity is reserved for long-term volunteers, ages 18 and older, who have completed their onboarding qualifications including an eligible background check and have prior paddling experience. Volunteers should be comfortable paddling flatwater and swimming.
Please note the following:
- All volunteers who complete this training are expected to volunteer for our Try Paddlesports programs and at the upcoming Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience as a Safety Boater.
- This is an on-water training that will require in-water exercises. Please come to the training prepared to paddle, dressed to get wet. Bring a full water bottle, hat/sunglasses, sunscreen, and/or bug spray as needed.
- In the event of inclement weather, this training will be rescheduled and volunteers will be notified.
RSVP is required. Please select the blue "Yes" button at the top to confirm your participation in this training.
