What is the National Canoe Safety Patrol?
The NCSP was founded more than 20 yrs. ago for the purpose of encouraging and promoting boating safety, including but not limited to the following: To assist river management agencies, race organizers and other safety and rescue organizations by offering river rescue training orientation to their personnel. To provide a shore and boat based safety presence in cooperation with river management agencies, race organizers and other safety and rescue organizations. To provide rescue and recovery assistance upon request of, and in cooperation with, river management agencies and other safety and rescue organizations.

Where does this take place?
Mostly on the Upper Delaware River between Narrowsburg and Port Jervis though the NCSP is chartered to serve wherever invited by race or event organizers or river management agencies.

How do I get this “training”?
Formal training is the last weekend of the month every April, on the Upper Delaware, with on the job training ongoing during the paddling season.

How much does it cost?
Training is free to active members with a nominal dues of $15 per year single membership, $30 family.

What is my obligation after joining?
A minimum of 4 days of service, on weekends between May 1st and July 4th.

Do I need a certain kind of boat?
Most members paddle whitewater canoes or kayaks, though a wide range of crafts are used and all are welcome.

Can I join at any time during the year?
Yes, but it is essential to attend the formal training weekend at the earliest opportunity.

What do I learn at the formal training weekend?
Many and varied topics including in-water mobility, boat and shore rescue, throw bag techniques, boat unpinning, foot entrapment rescues and more.

Do I have to be an “expert” paddler to join?
While some paddling experience is desired, some members are instructors and will be happy to assist in improving paddling skills.

How Do I join?
Click here to access our contact page. In the comments field please indicate your experience level, whether or not you have a boat and your home address and phone number so we may contact you.