Quad City Meteorologist to Instruct Kayak Safety Course

When Erik Maitland isn't forecasting the weather for the Quad City area, he's out paddling around on the water. In fact, he's even a certified kayak instructor.

To help close out National Safe Boating Week, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is hosting a paddle craft training seminar. Erik will be on hand sharing his experiences as one of the instructors.

The seminar will be at the Moline Public Library (3210 4th Street) this Saturday, May 27th from 10am to noon. The best part? It's free!

The course will cover and stress the need for life jackets, proper safety equipment, and general awareness about all aspects of paddling. Paddlers of all skill levels are invited.

Also covered in the seminar are discussions on choosing the right kayak and gear, basic strokes and correcting a flipped kayak, and river/lake paddling techniques will be explained.