Paddling after a storm: Whether you are Rafting, Kayaking, or Tubing It is very important to be careful when paddling a river after a storm, or heavy wind event. A paddler must expect the unexpected never paddle blind watch around every corner to avoid strainers – fallen debris – trees and other items that could be fatal to a boater if not watching. Always paddle with caution after an event. These things can trap a boat and a person while letting the water go thru like a spaghetti strainer, we call them drowning machines BEST TO AVOID AT ALL COST!