Warm weather in recent weeks has many people chomping at the bit to get out and into Iowa’s waterways, but the Department of Natural Resources says extra precautions are needed. Early spring paddling in canoes and kayaks provides solitude, exercise and the chance to see some amazing wildlife, but safety should be practiced first. The DNR is recommending that paddlers wait, allowing water temperatures to slowly rise, which could take several weeks to reach that ideal and safe point. “Air temperatures may feel warm in early spring, but water is still dangerously cold and can be deadly to boaters,” says Todd Robertson, Iowa DNR River Programs Water Trails coordinator. “Cold water shock and hypothermia can set in quickly if you are not dressed and fall into the cold water, so dress for a swim.” Robertson says paddlers should stay away from strainers or sweepers—wood or branch piles—deadly hazards that can pull people under or pin them underwater. These are usually found on outside river bends where currents are strongest. Some simple safety tips should be followed at every outing, including: making needed repairs and doing routine maintenance on the watercraft before putting it in the water; wearing a life jacket at all times, first making sure it is not damaged or worn; again, dressing for the water temperature, not the air temperature; bringing a dry bag with a set of extra clothes, a first aid kit and a protected cell phone or weather radio; getting out of the cold and wet as soon as possible; staying hydrated; and always letting someone know where you are going and your expected time of return.