Whether you prefer gliding across a serene lake, chasing coastal sunsets, or running a river, kayaking can be a rewarding activity for outdoor enthusiasts both young and old. However, before your next kayaking adventure, if you are not doing so already, we suggest you make safety your number one priority.
This article offers our top suggestions on how to ensure your paddling trips are safe and enjoyable. Following these recommendations will help you to kayak with confidence as you create new memories on the water!
Article Contents
- Create a Float Plan
- Pack Your Equipment & Safety Gear
- Wear a Life Jacket
- Monitor the Weather
- Prepare for Weather Conditions
- Learn How to Read the Water
- Paddle with a Partner
- Conclusion
Create a Float Plan
A float plan is a document that outlines your intended kayaking trip. Your float plan should include the logistical details of your trip such as the time you will depart, where you plan to put in and haul out, your intended paddling route, and the time you plan to return. When organizing your trip, consider the experience level of everyone who is going, and make sure to plan a trip that is comfortably within everyone's paddling ability. You may also want to pick an alternative location where you can haul out your kayak(s) in case of an emergency.
In addition to logistics, the float plan should also include information about who will be going on the trip. Include details like each individual’s full name, their age, their phone number, email, and emergency contacts.
Once you've created your float plan, share it with someone you trust who is not going on the trip. That way you’ll ensure that someone who is aware of your whereabouts can alert authorities or initiate a search if you do not return at the appointed time.
Pack Your Equipment and Safety Gear
It's important to have the proper equipment and safety gear when heading out on a kayaking trip. Here is a list of equipment that we recommend bringing on every kayaking outing:
Personal Flotation Device (PFD): A PFD, also known as a life jacket, is the most critical piece of safety equipment for kayaking. West Marine offers a variety of paddle sports life jackets that allow for maximum freedom of movement to help keep you comfortable and safe on your paddling trips.
First aid kit: Carry at least a basic first aid kit in case of minor injuries while on the water. Store the kit in a clearly-marked dry bag or waterproof compartment that is easily accessible on your kayak.
Safety Whistle: A handheld air horn or safety whistle is important because you can use it to signal for help if you find yourself in an emergency situation. The loud, piercing sound will attract attention and alert others to your location.
Satellite communicators keep you in touch with friends and family and can be used to alert search and rescue agencies to your position.
Communication Device: In an emergency, it’s essential to have a reliable means of communication to summon help. One option is to keep your cell phone handy in a waterproof location or in a dry bag. However, if cell coverage is lacking, you need to consider another means of communication. While handheld VHF radios are an option, they are limited in two ways: First their range in limited by the height of the antenna—which on a kayak is quite low. Second, their transmissions, which are “line of sight”, can be blocked by land masses or large buildings. For these reasons we suggest you consider a satellite communication device, like Garmin’s inReach® Mini 2 Satellite Communicator or SPOT’s SPOT X Satellite Messenger with Bluetooth. When needed, devices like these enable you to message friends and family with your location. A subscription is required.
Depending on just how far off the beaten path you paddle, another device to consider is a Personal Locator Beacon, or PLB. In an emergency, you can use a PLB to relay your position via a worldwide network of satellites to search and rescue agencies.
Appropriate Apparel: Monitor your local weather forecast and pack the appropriate apparel. For locations subject to squalls or showers, we suggest taking along some rainwear and that you dress in layers so that you can easily add to or remove clothing as conditions change.
Spare paddle: Don't get stuck up that proverbial creek without a paddle! We recommend bringing at least one extra paddle for your group in case a paddle gets lost.
Dry bag: A dry bag will keep its contents dry and protected from water and weather. It's a great place to store your valuables like car keys and cell phones, as well as a first aid kit. Many dry bags are also designed to be buoyant, which means they can float on the water's surface. This feature can be particularly helpful if your kayak capsizes or if you accidentally drop your bag overboard.
Bile sponge: A bile sponge is a useful piece of equipment that soaks up and removes water from your kayak.
Wear a Life Jacket
According to U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics, in 84% of drowning incidents, the victim was not wearing a life jacket. Given that, wearing a life jacket is the most important safety measure a kayaker can take while on the water. Wear it at all times when on the water, regardless of your swimming ability. West Marine offers life jackets in a variety of sizes and styles. Browse our collection of paddle sports life jackets to find one that fits properly and will be comfortable to wear all day on the water.
Monitor the Weather and Prepare Accordingly
It's essential to monitor the weather conditions before and during your trip. Before you leave, check the weather forecast and be prepared for unexpected changes, even if the initial forecast seems favorable. Avoid kayaking in extreme weather like dense fog, high waves, high or low temperatures, or large swells.
In addition to the weather, you'll want to check other location-specific conditions like tide charts, wave height, and anything else that may affect your kayaking experience. By staying informed and making wise decisions based on weather conditions, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable kayaking experience.
When kayaking, it's important to be prepared for various weather conditions. Start with sun protection. Wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and wear lightweight clothing to protect yourself from the sun. At West Marine, we offer a variety of sun protection products like sunscreen and lip balm to keep you comfortable and protected from the sun's harmful UV rays.
Know Where You Are
If you plan on padding into unfamiliar locations, we consider investing in a handheld GPS. With a handheld GPS, you can easily pinpoint your location and easily find your way back home.
Learn How to Read the Water
Knowing how to read the water will help you navigate safely and efficiently.
If you're out on open water, look for whitecaps, which occur during increased wave action and windy conditions. If you do encounter a wave, the safest way to get through it is to approach the wave head-on, which will minimize the chance of a broaching and capsizing.
If you're on a creek or river, keep an eye out for riffles, which indicate shallow waters. You'll likely want to stay away from these areas to avoid rocks and potentially getting grounded. Instead, look for smooth water that forms a "V" shape pointing downstream. This type of water is often the most direct and efficient path downstream.
No matter where you're kayaking, always scan for potential hazards like overhanging trees, bridges, or any other obstacles that could obstruct your route.
Paddle with a Partner
Paddling with a partner makes for a safer paddling experience.
Not only is it fun to kayak with a friend, but it's also safer. Experienced paddlers may be comfortable kayaking solo, but bringing a partner with you is always safer. Having a paddling partner means you have someone to assist you in case of an emergency or if you need help. You can also provide each other with support, guidance, or even rescue if necessary.
Conclusion
As you plan your kayaking adventures, remember that safety is the key to maximizing both fun and enjoyment. At West Marine, your safety is our priority, and we're here to support you every step of the way. We offer a wide selection of paddling gear and safety equipment for kayakers of all skill levels.
So get ready to gear up, and embark on safe and enjoyable kayaking adventures that will leave you with lasting memories for years to come.
If you're new to kayaking, check out our Beginners' Guide to Kayaking and our advice for Selecting a Kayak.