(Cleveland) - Paddle boarding is becoming very popular on Lake Erie, the Cuyahoga River, and other local waterways all year long. Kayak use is also growing.
At the Great Lakes Beach & Water Safety Conference at the Double Tree Hilton in Independence, Cleveland Metroparks experts are emphasize paddle boarding and Kayaking safety.
Cleveland Metroparks outdoor recreation manager Rachel Nagel maintains life jackets are a must when paddle boarding or kayaking, especially with the water temperature dropping.
She says they have special classes where enthusiasts to learn how to rescue other paddle boarders and kayaks who may find themselves in trouble.
Nagel tells Newsradio WTAM 1100, many people don't understand the process of drowning, and fail to recognize when it is happening.
She adds there are many factors to take into consideration when paddle boarding on Lake Erie where currents and winds can be challenging, and the Cuyahoga River where ships cause dangerous ripped in the water.
(Photos by Ken Robinson/WTAM)
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