Kayak Safety

By Mark Ambert

When we think of watercraft safety, we usually think of boats, but key safety issues apply to paddle craft as well. And while there are some common issues shared by all watercraft kayakers, SUPs and paddle boarders share some that are unique. Anyone that travels our Intracoastal Waterways here in the Palm Beaches, particularly on the weekends knows how significant the increase in non-powered watercraft has been.

With a significant increase in the number of paddlers sharing our waterways it’s a good idea to state some common safety guidelines. This situation was recently brought to my attention by my good friend and USCG Auxiliary Officer, James Mansell. James has recently enlisted in the Auxiliary. One of his primary missions is to get the word out on safety when kayaking.

According to James “The Auxiliaries provide information on safety and focus resources to advise, teach and improve the safety for kayakers of all disciplines.” James is based out of Stratford Connecticut and in particular the Housatonic where there are extensive river systems that share access with kayaks and boaters, similar to our ICW here in The Palm Beaches. James noted “There were 23 deaths in incidents in the latter quarter of 2022, and 11 of those happened in unusually good weather in October and November up here in the Northeast sector.” These types of numbers shed light on how important following sound personal safety policies are.

Although stationed in Connecticut, some common-sense rules apply across the board. Here are some basic safety rules highlighted by the USCG Auxiliary that will serve you well.

manually p ropelle D Ve SS el Safety rule S

1. Wear your life jacket (PFD)! Is it the proper size and in good condition? There must be a wearable life jacket aboard for each person.

2. Don’t stand up in a manually propelled vessel, such as a canoe, kayak or rowboat.

3. Always paddle directly into or away from the wake of larger boats.

4. If you CAPSIZE, stay with the manually propelled vessel. If you are in a strong current or white water, float down river feet first and toes up with the vessel ahead of you.

5. Do not drink alcohol before or while operating a manually propelled vessel. Alcohol affects balance, coordination, and judgement.

6. For more stability in rough conditions, kneel on the bottom instead of sitting on the seats.

7. The most experienced paddler should take the stern position.

8. Know the conditions before you set out. Always paddle within your abilities.

9. Load the manually propelled vessel evenly, fore and aft and side to side.

10. Be sure that you have the right boat for the conditions.

11. Wear proper clothing, including a hat. If you end up in the water, do not remove your clothes. They help you float and protect you against hypothermia.

12. Stay away from low head dams. They are extremely dangerous from both up and down stream.

13. Rough water, white water, or rapids are no place for beginners. Always wear a solid, correctly fitted helmet when white water canoeing or kayaking.

14. Paddle near shore, out of channels.

15. Paddle with a partner.

16. Always leave a FLOAT PLAN with someone ashore. Be specific about where you plan to go and when you will be back. Be sure to report back in when you return.

ma jor c au S e S of Boating acci D entS: ct Doe Website – kayaking Safety https://portal.ct.gov/Deep/Boating/Safety/ manually-propelled-Vessel-Safety uSgc auxiliar y, flotilla 24-2 Stratford, ct officer james mansell https://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=014-24-02 mark ambert, marksgonefishing™ author – avid outdoorsman, sportswriter and photographer. contact marksgonefishing25@gmail.com

• Improper loading or overloading.

• Disregard for weather or water conditions.

• Improper lookout.

• Capsizing or falling overboard.

• Failure to wear a life jacket (PFD).

Here’s some of the safety gear I carry while kayak fishing. Anchoring system, rubber reusable twist ties like Gear Tie and Boom Fishing Lanyards to secure personal belongings. Fishing rod leashes, Belt Pack PFD with safety leash, folding knife and fishing pliers, medical kit, electric tape, a small portable LED Stern Light and a good headlamp when fishing after dark.

Although the above items are not mandatory for safety, they have in my experience provided an added measure of comfort and assurances when on the water – and in the case of extra lighting, especially after dark. I also practice righting my craft in a safe area in the event of a rollover.

Above everything else remember you are dealing with limited space and tradeoffs are necessary. Fine tune your safety gear as you go along!

I want to personally thank my friend James for bringing this issue to the forefront and to the Connecticut USCG Auxiliary for the thoughtful safety guidelines provided. Good public safety begins with awareness and education.