RULE # 0: There is no set of rules that makes camping failsafe!

Expect and plan for the worst, hope for the best. "Learn how to laugh when things get  tough; especially at yourself."  Above all, THINK! As soon as you stop thinking, something will happen. I've found that even if you do think...stuff happens! Murphy's Law will be in effect at all times.  
Be willing to take advice from other seasoned paddlers. Don't let pride get in your way. You never know it all and you may have forgotten some of the things you once understood.

PERSONAL SAFETY
1- Always use your personal flotation device.
2- Treat being tired, wet and cold (Hypothermia) as the greatest deadly sin.
3- Know your limits. Do not attempt to travel beyond your capabilities, too far, too
rugged, too long.  
4- Never let itinerary or time constraints drive your decision making when faced with an
issue dealing with weather.  Getting there late is far better than not getting there.
5- When whittling wood....ALWAYS cut AWAY from your body parts!
6-Carry a small survival kit on your person, compass, knife, signal device, food, fire,
and shelter.
7-RESIST the urge... "i can hop/jump to that next rock, i know i can" ... ankles aren’t as
sturdy as you think.
8- Do not get too close to animals larger than you…cow moose with calves, bears with
cubs, bull moose in the fall.
9- Don't dive from shore or swim in the rapids.  Tree snags hidden under water could
entangled you.  Think about what's below the surface when diving or jumping.
10- Don't eat wild food items unless you are sure they are safe...there are several with
look-alike counterparts which are deadly.
11 - Tread extremely carefully when crossing wet rocks or logs; they are very slippery.