•
General
Safety
• Kayak
Fishing Check List
• Self Rescue Technique
•
Should I swim for it?
•
A
Lucky Escape
General Safety.
As
with all recreational activities safety is paramount, so always use common
sense as a guide.
Here
are a few pointers:
Never exceed
the weight capacity of your kayak, which includes your equipment and yourself.
Weight capacities stated are for calm waters only.
Wear your
life jacket (PFD). Wearing your lifejacket will help keep your head above
water and add insulation to your body, keeping you warmer in cold water.
Tell someone
your paddle plan, where you are going, and when you expect to return.
Paddling
in the surf zone can be dangerous, remove all rods from their holders
and store inside kayak if your hatch will allow, or strap to side of your
kayak using paddle straps when launching and returning to the beach in
surf, remove all hooks and lures.
Be aware
of weather conditions and water temperature. Prepare for changes in weather
and the possibility of a capsize. If paddling in cold water, a wet suit
or dry suit can keep you warm and comfortable. In warm weather, a long
sleeve shirt can provide sun protection.
Beware of
off-shore winds that can make it difficult to return to shore.
When paddling
in a new area, check with the coastguard regarding tides, shoreline conditions
and weather patterns.
Be aware
of other water users, they may not see you, wear bright colours, when
choosing your kayak colour make it a bright one, be alert.
The picture shows some of the safety items I carry on my
kayak, Scotty's Safety Emergency Kit which includes a floating rope, waterproof
torch, signalling whistle and bailer/waterproof container and Scotty's
First Aid Kit with everything from tweezers to smelling salts, antiseptic
wipes to plasters, if like me you get the occasional hook stuck in your
hand, the wipes and plasters could be extremely helpful.
The
information provided is a free reference guide only. The author of this
information, sponsors and the owners of the website that host this information
are not liable for any problems or issues that arise from the use of this
information. Users of this information hereby acknowledge that all use
of this information is done by their own free will, at their own sole
risk, understanding that injury or death could occur.
