As an avid kayaker, Michael Ivan Syroejine knows that the end of summer weather can lead to conditions that change at a rather rapid pace. In the middle of hurricane season, it’s important for all kayaking enthusiasts to understand the precautions they can take to enjoy a safe experience every time they head out on the water. Today, Michael Ivan Syroejine provides some kayak safety tips that can help anyone who encounters an unexpected accident while out paddling.
Know Your States Requirements for Lighting on Kayaks and Unpowered Vessels
Kayakers can still enjoy plenty of fun in the water during the late summer and early fall months. One thing to consider is that the days grow shorter and it will begin to get dark earlier on. Unfortunately, kayaks without proper lighting are at great risk of collision with boats out on the water. State’s have lighting requirements for kayaks and other unpowered water vessels based on their given length. Following these laws is pivotal as they not only ensure that a kayak can be seen at night, but they also ensure the proper types of lighting are utilized. The wrong type of light can give boaters the wrong impression of what type of vessel you are maneuvering. For instance, red and green lights are typically associated with other boats.
Michael Ivan Syroejine on Gear You Need
Space is obviously hard to come by on most kayaks, so it’s important to pack correctly. Certain safety gear should accompany a person every time they head out on the water. A life jacket is an obvious one and should just be worn regardless of age or experience level. A lot of strong swimmers choose not to wear a lifejacket, but they may not realize that most life-threatening occasions occur when a kayaker is knocked unconscious after a crash. The lifejacket offers a level of protection that should not be ignored.
Once again, most states have regulatory laws on supplies that must be present in a kayak. Be sure to check local state regulations. However, some common lists will include a whistle, a personal flotation device, a first-aid kit and different night signals. Night signals are things like flares or electric lights that can help would be rescuers identify you on the water. Kayakers who are going to take trips in heavily populated areas should ensure that their kayak has a visible flag attached at the end of the vessel. Kayaks are low to the water and can be difficult to see when operating a larger boat. The flag can help enhance visibility and increase safety.
Brighten Up
Most kayak manufacturers produce kayaks in the brightest of colors. Not only can these colors prove aesthetically pleasing, but they are also utilized for visibility purposes. Oars offer another great opportunity to signify your presence on the water. The back of paddles will often reflect to ensure anyone out on the water can identify the kayak from a distance. The sooner boats can see a kayaker, the sooner they can navigate out of the way.
Get a Handheld Radio
In the digital age, most people rely on their cellphones to connect with others. A cellphone is only as valuable as it is dry and charged. When kayaking in remote locations, service can be spotty. To ensure that you can always get in touch with the outside world, a handheld radio is a great device to have aboard. A handheld radio will make it easy to contact the United States Coastguard if you find yourself in a tricky situation.
Watch The Forecast
Lightning storms are not your friend, especially in the summer months where they can pop up seemingly out of nowhere. Be sure to check the forecast before every excursion. If lightning does appear out of the blue, be sure to have an idea of the quickest path to land. The sooner you can seek shelter and get out of the water, the better off you will be.
Use The Buddy System
No matter if you are just bringing the kayak in the bay or out in the ocean, someone else should always be aware that you are headed out. Ideally, this person will be able to watch you from afar. However, the next best thing is to have someone who will know something is off if you don’t return by a certain time. It’s always a good idea to have a person who will sound the alarms if necessary.
