Water Safety

For kayaking and canoeing

Everyone knows your PFD, or personal flotation device, is the standard when it comes to water safety on a canoe or kayak. There should be no excuses regardless of age or comfort. Confident swimmers in good shape will often exclude themselves from the rule, knowing very well that they are no match for a current or undertow. Ideally your life jacket will fit snugly without being too bulky, but even if you don't have one that's comfortable, that's the one you should wear. Be prepared with a proper life jacket next time. Proper footwear and clothing are next on the list of oversights. In colder weather you'll want neoprene socks and warm shoes to keep your feet warm and dry. But in warmer weather, you may want open toe sandals or water shoes. This give you protection from any rocks or glass you might encounter, but they also won't weigh you down if you go overboard.

Beyond the basics

A helmet should be considered standard equipment for any kind of whitewater boating or kayaking of any kind. Otherwise, common sense eye and head protection is recommended. This, of course, will supplement your sunscreen and keep you from charring like the burgers you're going to have later.

Your dry bag is where you should carry your first aid kit, map, 2-way radio, dry change of clothes and a towel or two. Fasten the dry bag to your canoe or kayak and stow it away. You'll be very glad if you ever end up needing it, and it only takes a minute to put together.

Speaking of only taking a minute, you should also include plenty of water and a simple snack for everyone on board. Great ideas that don't take up a lot of space include nuts and trail mix. Fruit is good, but some protein is recommended. You'll get quite a workout rowing for even a short while, and you don't want to make the return trip on an empty stomach.

In addition to your dry bag, you'll also want what is known as a rope throw bag. This is simply a weighted bag attached to a rope so you can throw it toward anyone overboard and reel them in. It is also great for towing other boats or being towed. Incidentally, don't try to lift anyone who has gone overboard back into the boat unless it is an emergency. It's more difficult than it sounds and you run the risk of capsizing your canoe.

Finally, you should also carry a sharp knife and a paddling whistle attached to your life jacket. You never run out of needs for a good knife, and you hope to not use the paddling whistle. The latter is useful if you go overboard or want to get the attention of those on the shore. When you are near the surface of water, it is very difficult to shout and be heard. With the paddling whistle, you know you can alert people if needed.