Most times were as a result of practicing rescue skills and my early stages of learning to roll. Rescue skills are a must!!!! especially in the cold waters of Maine. The paddle float reentry is something you need to practice and in my opinion learning to roll is a necessity as well. Yes a pump is required equipment as well as a paddle float. I also keep a sponge in the boat to suck up the little water you get when you get in and when you practice rolling (not swamping). Check Nick's other BBs out for more info on paddling skills.