While a fun and exhilarating sport, kayaking poses its own set of challenges. When out on the water, you should know how to properly take care of yourself and handle an emergency. Here are tips and advice when facing an unexpected situation while kayaking.
Make Sure You’re Wearing the Right Equipment
Preparation is key in averting disaster. Wear a boating helmet, dry suit, as well as a personal flotation device during kayaking. Consider other gear that can increase safety on the water, including a GPS or another navigation device and an air horn to reach rescuers.
Don’t Forget the Paddle Leash
This will help you stay attached and prevent you from being separated from your paddle if you happen to capsize. If you actually end up in the water, stay with your craft to make it easier for rescuers to find you.
Recover your position
Your kayak, no matter if it takes on the open ocean or down lazy rivers, can roll and leave you upside down as well as underwater. Among the easiest ways to recover from this unfavorable position is with the hip flick, which involves flicking only your hips and rear end at first and then your upper body once you gain momentum. Use your paddle to garner further momentum.
Inform Friends and Family About Your Whereabouts
Before going on a kayak trip, provide a friend or loved one information about your route and expected trip time frame. Thus when an emergency occurs, someone back home knows where to look for you.
Anouk Govil is a junior scientist, water sports enthusiast, and queen of open mic. She is a biology major attending California State University Channel Islands. Read more on this page.