When paddling a canoe at night, which piece of equipment should you carry to help avoid a collision?

Carrying a flashlight while paddling a canoe at night is crucial for safety and collision avoidance. A flashlight provides visibility not only for the paddler but also alerts other vessels or boaters to your presence. It illuminates the surrounding area, allowing you to see potential hazards in the water or on the shore, and helps you navigate effectively. Additionally, shining a flashlight can catch the attention of others who might not see you, making it an essential tool for nighttime paddling safety.

While flares can signal an emergency and a compass aids navigation, they do not serve the primary purpose of immediate visibility and situational awareness in the dark. Binoculars are primarily for enhancing vision over distance but would not assist in illuminating your path or signaling other boats effectively. Therefore, the flashlight is the most practical and necessary piece of equipment for safe nighttime canoeing.