Safety first! For terrific safety advice for being on the water in your kayak or canoe, the American Canoe Association (ACA) is an excellent resource for getting the most out of your paddling experience through information and training.  Vibe shares the same goals that emphasize respect for the sport and always recommends training for all paddlers. Safety is key for your enjoyment of paddling. Many states also have a variety of laws related to the safe operation of your kayak and required accessories, such as a PFD (life jacket) and a sound device (such as an air horn or whistle), so please search online for what regulations might be specific to your state.