Kayaking: Basic Rules for Beginners and Experts
Kayaking is an enjoyable and exciting activity loved by most people. For those who practice kayaking or enjoy going outdoors in general, you are in for an easy and safe paddle. With any recreational activity, things do go wrong from time to time. The fact that kayaking is a water spot, situations can change instantly, leading to severe injuries or death. Before you start kayaking, you need to know the hazards and risks involved. Experts recommend a safety-conscious attitude when it comes to kayaking.
What Are the Safety Rules to Follow When Kayaking?
Follow some basic rules to stay safer on the water:
Bring the Right Equipment
The right equipment can be the difference between staying safe and getting in serious trouble. Make sure you have the recommended kayaking gear before embarking on a paddling spree. Some of the essential equipment you need include a PFD, dry bag, whistle, paddle float, rope, rope bag, and of course, the best kayak. After assembling the kit, ensure you can easily access it during an emergency. Make sure to inform the rest of the team members what equipment you have and where it's stowed.
Create and Share a Float Plan With Group Members
An excellent float plan contains essential details about the trip. Make sure you have the names of everyone in the group. Everyone should know the details in terms of put-in and take-out locations. The planned route should be made available to everyone. You should inform the authorities of the launch and return times as well and make sure you have an action plan if any member is past the set deadline.
Don’t Go Alone
An experienced kayaker can go alone. Having a friend alongside ensures you decrease your margin for error. A friend rescue is faster than any self-rescue, especially if you are hurt. It is also more fun to share the kayaking adventure with your buddies. Make sure to have your group as close as possible. Any stretching out into a series of solo kayakers is ill-advised. Kayakers should be within a whistle blast from a fellow kayaker.
Dress Appropriately
When kayaking, you must have the correct clothing. You are not only dressing for the water but the weather too. The day might be sunny, but immersion in cold water will lower body temperature. Wear gloves and a wet suit when paddling in severe conditions or deep waters. You should also have thermal clothing underneath to help your body keep warm. Protecting your skin from UV rays is critical for people planning to spend more time on the water.
Know the Local Weather and Hazards
Make sure you do your research on the local climate and risks. You should also be checking the weather patterns as you paddle. Make sure you scan the horizon for storm clouds; if the weather is iffy, plan for another day. When it comes to hazards, gather some local knowledge on when the wind sets in. Are there unexpected swells and underwater hazards? It would help if you also avoided collision with team members. A vessel from behind is at all times responsible for avoiding you.
Practice Basic Safety Maneuvers
Before heading out, you should first understand and execute safety maneuvers. You should be aware of rolling your kayak as well as re-entering your kayak. Make sure you practice the drills in calm and shallow water. You should also be in the company of a more experienced kayaker when practicing safety drills. For users who are not comfortable re-entering their kayak, make sure to stay within swimming distance to shore.
Stay on the Lookout
What excites most kayakers is the beautiful scenery you get to experience during the trip. While enjoying these sites, you must stay vigilant. Watch out for other people as well as large vessels that move at a higher speed. When you are alert, it makes it easier to avoid dangerous situations. Maintain communication with other group members to ensure everyone is still kayaking. Make sure you spot any signs of dehydration or sunstroke and treat them early as well. Be sure to carry a water bottle with you at all times to avoid any possible scenarios with dehydration.
Verdict
Always wear your life jacket when out in the water and never take it off. You might feel uncomfortable paddling with a life jacket, however, this is not the place or time to take it off. Make sure you invest in a kayaking specific life jacket. Kayaking life jackets are designed to be comfortable and unrestricting — and to save your life.
Once you've got these golden rules for kayaking engrained in your mind, you will enjoy every bit of this recreational activity.
Resources— Rei, Three Sisters Kayak Rental, Kayak Help
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