When I lived in Pa almost 40 years ago, I nearly lived in a canoe. We had 2 of them, both aged Old Town that had been fiberglassed over. I used to run the Alleghany river from Port Alleghany to Oil City, at least twice a year. Lots of rapids then before the Kinzua dam. I also used them on Lake Erie during summer months. I think for a 1/4-2 miles, there is little likelyhood of too much danger, if appropriate safety precautions are taken. Wear life jacket, paddle from the middle of the boat instead of from the ends, kneel in the centerline with knees against the chine, strap an extra paddle to the thwarts, and learn to be proficient in canoe strokes and paddling, like "j" stroke, sculling, and back strokes. Learn how to upright an overturned canoe, the stern downward push to partially empty one overturned, and the proper method to get into a canoe from the water. Use common sense, like not wearing heavy boots or waders in the canoe. Footgear in a canoe should be easily removed, if he finds himself in the water. One ought to be very proficient and comfortable with his craft, before attempting any questionalbe outing. Learn how to manuver the canoe on a calm lake and practice paddle strokes to get the feel of the canoe's capability. I'm sure there are some Boy Scout troops in your area and think they might be able to lend you the canoeing merit badge manual. All those techniques are covered in the book and easily learned. Have fun.
