Kayak Safety
All water sports involve a risk. Those who have experience with kayaks or other boats will probably be aware of water safety rules and procedures. But new kayakers may need to learn this information by taking a training course, paddling with someone who has experience or joining a club.
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Always wear a life jacket! Sometimes referred to as “PFD” personal floatation device or buoyancy aid.
It is safer to kayak with at least one other person and to tell someone where you will be going and when you expect to return.
Before setting off ensure that your boat is in a water worthy condition has adequate buoyancy and all hatches are securely closed off from any water intake. It is recommended that if you intend to paddle off shore you should carry a bilge pump or bailer.
Be aware of local conditions - Check Tide times including currents, as some places can only be paddled when tide is suitable.Check for shoreline variations and special hazards in the area you plan to visit.
Check the weather and know about likely changes, such as offshore winds that may occur.
It is sensible for beginners to choose appropriate water and weather conditions while gaining experience and refining paddling techniques.
It is often colder on the water and the sun is stronger. Wear or take suitable protection.
It is a good idea to carry some form of communication. A mobile phone in a waterproof bag is a good idea (Be aware that a mobile phone is not designed for this use - you may be cut off or you may be in an area where the signal is weak). A portable VHF Radio is better as it enables you to talk directly to Coastguard. In an emergency use VHF Channel 16 and call the Coastguard. Attach a whistle to your life jacket to attract attention. If you are paddling off shore you should carry distress flares (in date).
Avoid losing your paddle if you intend to paddle off shore by attaching it to your kayak with a paddle line (do not use paddle line while surfing) or carry a spare.
Wear a helmet for surf and white-water kayaking and for other activities where there are rough water and rocks.
It is safer to kayak with at least one other person and to tell someone where you will be going and when you expect to return.
Before setting off ensure that your boat is in a water worthy condition has adequate buoyancy and all hatches are securely closed off from any water intake. It is recommended that if you intend to paddle off shore you should carry a bilge pump or bailer.
Be aware of local conditions - Check Tide times including currents, as some places can only be paddled when tide is suitable.Check for shoreline variations and special hazards in the area you plan to visit.
Check the weather and know about likely changes, such as offshore winds that may occur.
It is sensible for beginners to choose appropriate water and weather conditions while gaining experience and refining paddling techniques.
It is often colder on the water and the sun is stronger. Wear or take suitable protection.
It is a good idea to carry some form of communication. A mobile phone in a waterproof bag is a good idea (Be aware that a mobile phone is not designed for this use - you may be cut off or you may be in an area where the signal is weak). A portable VHF Radio is better as it enables you to talk directly to Coastguard. In an emergency use VHF Channel 16 and call the Coastguard. Attach a whistle to your life jacket to attract attention. If you are paddling off shore you should carry distress flares (in date).
Avoid losing your paddle if you intend to paddle off shore by attaching it to your kayak with a paddle line (do not use paddle line while surfing) or carry a spare.
Wear a helmet for surf and white-water kayaking and for other activities where there are rough water and rocks.
This list is only a guide and not exhaustive.Safety is the responsibility of the individual.
Safety is partly preparation, partly experience, partly commonsense.Don’t spoil a great day out by forgetting to take the necessary safety precautions.
Safety is partly preparation, partly experience, partly commonsense.Don’t spoil a great day out by forgetting to take the necessary safety precautions.