Remember to camp at least 200 feet away from all fresh water sources. Within minutes of exposure, you begin to lose muscle coordination, and after 15 minutes you may not survive. Be prepared and know self-rescue techniques. If you capsize, get to shore and into dry clothing as quickly as possible. Be sure to consider tides, wind, rain, chop, and general weather outlook when planning to cross.
Islands can also make the crossing safer.
As a general rule, don't cross the Behm unless you have to. This list is intended to serve only as a guide, to illustrate potential campsites and trip stops. For example, if you are at Rudyerd Bay, it is safer to paddle straight up the mainland coast to Walker Cove rather than cross to camp at Manzanita Bay and then cross back again. When planning your trip, consider your options and design an itinerary that suits your desires and encompasses the fewest crossings possible. Other island Icehouse Cove is an easy day paddle from downtown Ketchikan.