Safety on the Water

 

Since my journey will be on the river, I researched safety on water and I noticed several reoccuring statements.

 

- Yield to other boats!  As a kayaker, you are in a small craft that is, in many cases, less than 12 feet long.  On a river or a lake you might face boats that are longer, and fast than you.  Be wary!  They have the right of way!

- Do NOT drink alcohol and kayak!  Just like driving, those two do not mix well!

- You have PFD (Personal Floatation Device)/ life vest- wear it when you are on the water!

 

 

     = Most canoeing/kayaking deaths are a result of not using a PFD!

     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     = Mother and daughter, who were experienced kayakers, drowned.  They were NOT wearing PFD's. (Click for story). 

 

- Never kayak in a river that is too high or too low!

- Have a partner, or at least someone who knows a detailed plan of your journey, just in case something happens!

- Research your trip beforehand; know the layout of the water and possible obstructions!

- DAMS!  Give wide berth!  At minimum, you should be 200ft away from a dam when upstream, and 100ft away when downstream.

- Do NOT go over any low head dams!  Due to the hydrodynamic backwater flow, you could be sucked down and spin underwater until it decides to spit you out!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Kayaking at night is not recommended, but if you find yourself on the water after dark, make sure your illumination source is adequate!

- Definitely check with your state's fishing and boating commission to make sure you are up to code!

 

 

*ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN B! And make sure that you know the weather forecast for when you are planning on kayaking!  You are at the mercy of the weather when you are outdoors!*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Useful websites:

http://www.foldingkayak.com/safety.htmhttp://www.americancanoe.org/?page=top_10

http://www.fluidkayaks.com/us/safety/

https://www.americanwhitewater.org/content/Safety/view/

http://www.oceankayak.com/kayaking_basics/basic_safety_rules/

http://www.smart-start-kayaking.com/Kayaking-Safety.html