AUXPAD Program

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has initiated a paddlecraft safety program called Auxiliary Paddlecraft, or AUXPAD.

The program has three major educational points:

• The need to have and wear a proper life jacket
• The need to be prepared and have proper safety equipment
• The need for general awareness about all aspects of paddling safety, including situational awareness and the need to practice skills

AUXPAD includes traditional dockside Auxiliary boating safety activities such as public education, public affairs, literature distribution, and vessel safety exams. A defining element of the program is on-water delivery of safety messages to novice paddlers. Auxiliarist participants in this on-water program are required to have passed the ACA Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring Skills Assessment or the ACA Level 2: Essentials of River Kayaking Skills Assessment. Auxiliarists designated as AUXPAD Qualifiers (supervisors) will be required to hold current ACA Level 2: Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor Certification (or higher) or the ACA Level 2: Essentials of River Kayaking Instructor Certification (or higher).

More information about the program is available in the AUXPAD Handbook and on the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s website.

The USCG Auxiliary is a volunteer component of the Coast Guard, whose focus is on boating safety. Working with the Auxiliary allows the ACA to reach more paddlers, and to help them have more fun on the water. Auxiliary members can take a wide range of boating leadership classes. With appropriate training, they can participate in Coast Guard operations and activities, except for law enforcement and military operations.

ACA strongly supports the Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary. If you are interested in learning more about AUXPAD or serving as an Auxiliary member, please contact the ACA SEI Department.

For more information about delivering or receiving the ACA credentials associated with this program, please contact the ACA SEI Department.