Safety on the Water

“Do I need to wear my life jacket?”
“Are there unwritten rules I should know about?”

There are a lot of variables when you’re paddling. We want you to be prepared and empowered in order to get the absolute most out of your experience. Whether you’re a kayaker or boat captain, it’s important to know how to stay safe on the water! Here are a few tips to get you started:

 

Be mindful of your comfort zone.

If you don’t feel comfortable in a given set of conditions, return to shore. It’s important to accept our own ability and experience level when out on the water. Knowledge is power out there!

 

Always check the weather.

It may seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget. Weather can change quickly. During any outing on the water, you should always be aware of subtle changes in wind and temperature.

 

Avoid cotton.

When paddling in cooler weather, avoid wearing cotton clothing like t-shirts and jeans. They retain water and accelerate cooling when wet.

 

Dress for visibility.

Choose a brightly colored life jacket as well as clothing that’ll make it easier for others to spot you on the water. For one, you don’t want power boats to run over you. And second, you want EMS (or anyone else who can potentially help) to see you in an emergency.

 

Bring a life jacket.

While you may not be required to wear your life jacket, most states mandate that each paddler has one with them and readily accessible. Kids under 13 are usually required to wear a USCG approved Type I, II, III or IV life jacket (learn more) while underway (not at anchor, moored or aground). Again, it’s best to check with your home state to learn the requirements.

 

Avoid power boats.

It’s always best to practice defensive paddling when you’re around power boats. Just like walking across a busy street, you should always assume that they don’t see you out there.

 

Always have signaling devices.

In case of an emergency it’s important to keep signaling devices such as a whistle or a mirror in a pocket of your life jacket.

 

Know the law.

Coast Guard and state DUI laws apply to all vessels, including recreational canoes, kayaks and SUPs.

 

Have a light at night.

It’s smart to have a light at night on the water for obvious reasons. As light dissipates paddlers essentials disappear out there. Having a light let’s power boats that are navigating the same waters know where you are. In an emergency, a light can alert EMS, Coast Guard or others to your location. On top of that, U.S. Coast Guard laws state that “vessel(s) under oars” ie. canoes,kayaks & sups require “an electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light” which “shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.”

 

Learn the “Rules of the Road”

The “Rules of the Road” govern all boat traffic, from kayaks to container ships. Knowing these simple rules will help you anticipate where other boats will go, and keep you out harm’s way.

 

Use the “Buddy System”.

One of the safest things you can do for any paddling trip is to bring a buddy, especially trips to remote waters where you might be far from any help.

 

Tell a friend.

If you decide to paddle alone, always tell a friend before you go. And, it’s not a bad idea to choose a location where other people are likely be paddling.