Kayak Safety
While kayaking is an enjoyable
sport, it can also be dangerous. Be sure that
you are prepared and practice safe kayaking.
Kayak Plan
First and foremost file a float plan. Many paddlers
enjoy solitude when kayaking or canoeing, but
its important that paddlers let someone know
where they will be paddling and approximately
when they will return. Additionally they must
adhere to their float plan. In the event that
something tragic were to occur a float plan
gives rescuers a starting point.
Prepare to Kayak
Kayakers should prepare for a day in the sun
or rain. Coastal Regulations dictate that paddlers
must have at least the basic safety equipment
for a day's paddling. In a kayak under 6 meters
in length you should have basic equipment for
a day's paddle on a soft adventure. This equipment
should includes: a life jacket (PFD), a sprayskirt,
a pump or bailer, sponge, paddle, a whistle,
a paddle float, a spare paddle, and a buoyant
heaving line. Additionally kayakers should include
a small first aid kit with a foil survival packet,
waterproof matches, a kayak repair kit, toilet
paper, extra warm clothes and duct tape. Lightweight
Rain gear or paddling jacket is also a good
idea. Paddlers are also encouraged to bring
paddling gloves to prevent blistering, quick-drying
shorts, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Paddlers
may also want to bring flares, and a weather
or marine radio.
Be sure to bring a cap or hat
to provide protection from the sun. Paddlers
should have waterproof boots or good sandals.
If the temperature are cooler warm close toe
shoes are recommended. During the cool part
of the year, long underwear and a warm change
of clothes are advised.
Kayakers should also bring an
appropriate amount of fresh drinking water.
Take at least one liter of water for a day's
kayaking and a be sure to bring a snack. Using
a camel pack will make the water accessible
while paddling. It is very easy to get dehydrated,
up to three liters of water is recommended for
warm days.
Select a personal flotation device
designed specifically for paddling and comfort.
Make sure the device is comfortable in whatever
activities you hope to do, paddling, racing
or fishing. While comfort is important it should
not be at the expense of adequate floatation.
Utilize hatches and dry bags or
boxes for organizing and stowing gear inside
the boat. Minimize the amount of deck cargo.
Deck cargo interferes with wind, and makes a
capsized kayak more difficult to right. Be sure
to use dry bags, boxes and packs for above deck
storage with kayaks that do not afford internal
access.
Learn the Basics
First If you are new to kayaking, take it slow.
For your first few outings, go with an experienced
and knowledgeable kayaker who can teach you
the basics of paddling. The instructor might
be a friend, adventure guide or kayaking instructor.
One of the more important things to learn is
a rescue or wet-entering. Before venturing out
on your own you should really be comfortable
with the kayak, be aware of your limitations
in various conditions.
Inspect Kayak
Before starting a paddling trip be sure to properly
inspect all of the equipment. Inspect the spring
that holds the paddles together. Check the foot
braces or sliders for wear. Inspect the rudder
or skeg control, if necessary apply WD-40 as
a lubricant. Make sure your seat, foot braces,
and rudder assembly are all in good shape prior
to paddling. Inspect any components that could
break and replace anything that is beginning
to wear too much.
Check the kayak seat, some are
uncomfortable. In order to increase comfort
you can add thin foam to the seat and try adjusting
the seat back. Be aware that by raising the
seat one-inch with a cushion, the stability
of the kayak might be compromised. Make sure
neoprene hatch covers are in good shape. Never
paddle a boat without watertight hatch covers
unless your boat has tapered buoyancy air bags.
Check the Weather
Prior to taking a kayak trip, be sure to check
the weather conditions. In addition to the weather
be aware of the wind direction and tide tables.
If tide and wind are traveling the same direction,
water conditions are often somewhat calm. When
the wind is traveling against the tidal current,
waves will be created and make kayaking more
difficult especially for beginners.
Navigation
All kayakers should carry navigational tools.
A compass, charts for the area protected in
a waterproof bag, tide tables and a handheld
GPS unit will make navigation significantly
easier.
Transportation
Be sure that you do not drag your boat on the
beach. When the kayak is out of the water do
not sit on the hatches or decks. Fully loaded
kayaks should not be carried by the handles,
they should also be supported by a hand under
the keel to reduce the stress on the carrying
handles.
When transporting the kayak on
top of a car, tie the kayak tight across the
width, but allow bow and stern tie downs to
be slightly loose. Be careful that the kayak
does not fill with rain when being transported.
Kayak Storage
Store your kayak resting on fitted padded rests.
Your kayak can lose its shape if left sitting
on a flat or rugged surface. Preferably the
rests should be placed close to the bulkheads.
Keep in mind that salt corrodes metal fittings
so be sure to rinse the kayak with a hose after
ocean use. UV rays destroys plastic and fiberglass
so be sure to keep your kayak out of the sun
during storage.
About the Author:
Rob Daniels is an avid kayaker and outdoor enthusiasts
more at Snorkeling Shop http://www.snorkeling-shop.com
and Kayak Escape http://www.kayak-escape.com
