ACA Trip Planning & Leadership Flashcards
6 cards from real ACA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 ACA Trip Planning & Leadership flashcards as text
What is an 'eddy' in river paddling, and how is it used in trip planning?
Answer: A stretch of flat, slow water downstream of an obstacle where boats can rest
An eddy is a calm area of water behind a rock or obstacle where current reverses and paddlers can stop, rest, and regroup before the next rapid.
How does a group leader use river 'gauge height' or 'CFS' (cubic feet per second) data in trip planning?
Answer: To assess current water level and flow conditions, which affect difficulty and safety
Gauge height and CFS data from USGS or local gauges tell the leader how much water is flowing, directly affecting rapid difficulty, strainer hazards, and overall safety.
What is the ACA's recommended approach for paddling in a group in moving water?
Answer: Use a lead paddler, evenly spaced group, and sweep with everyone in visual contact
The ACA recommends a lead paddler setting the pace, consistent spacing, and a sweep paddler at the rear so the entire group remains in visual contact.
What should an ACA instructor communicate during a pre-trip safety briefing?
Answer: Hazards, emergency signals, group procedures, rescue protocols, and gear requirements
A complete pre-trip safety briefing covers hazards, hand signals, rescue procedures, group organization, and equipment requirements so students can respond appropriately to any situation.
What is 'lining' a canoe, and when is it used in trip planning?
Answer: Using ropes to guide an unloaded or lightly loaded canoe through a rapid from the shore
Lining involves using bow and stern lines from shore to guide a boat through a hazard when paddling through is too risky — a portage alternative for manageable rapids.
When planning a multi-day paddling trip, what is the primary purpose of documenting a medical information form for each participant?
Answer: To ensure emergency responders and instructors have critical health information in case of an incident
Medical information forms provide first responders with critical details like allergies, medications, medical conditions, and emergency contacts when a participant cannot communicate.