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Kayak safety

By NEIL TAYLOR
Published February 2, 2007

Safety equipment checklist:

Visual signaling devices (light, mirror or waterproof reflector decals).

Audio signaling devices (whistle, horn).

Personal Flotation Device.

Submersible VHF radio and/or a dry bag for your cell phone (Coast Guard monitors Channel 16).

The right watercraft. Various kayaks models have different stabilities. An angler fishing shallow, oyster-laden waters should choose a boat that isn't going to be too "tippy" and flip them face down onto an oyster bed.

Compass and handheld GPS. Useful for finding your way back to your launch site.

Spare batteries. Have spares for the GPS and flashlight. Make sure the VHF radio is recharged.

First-aid kit.

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide brimmed hat to reduce exposure.

Spare clothing. Spare shorts, T-shirt (long sleeve and short), windbreakers (jacket and pants). Keep in a large nylon travel bag

Water. Stay hydrated.

A spare paddle.

An anchor. Keeps you from drifting into trouble areas. If rescue is required, it will keep you in one precise location.

For night trips, a 360-degree light is needed if you kayak at night. Headlamps are a good idea as well.

Dry storage. Keeps cell phone dry.

Buddy system:

Don't fish treacherous areas alone.

Maintain eye contact with your buddy.

Leave a float plan with someone and some kind of plan of action if you are overdue (see VHF radio and cell phone in dry bag: Let them know what channel you will monitor on the VHF).

Perform a radio check.

Trip planning:

Ask questions about areas you haven't gone to before. Take along a map. Have an emergency "action plan." Quick and ready access to your PFD should be instantaneous should you end up in the water.

Be aware of storms. Check weather forecasts before you go.

Be aware of other watercraft. Have a signaling device handy.

Take a look down before you enter the water. Stepping onto a jagged oyster bar, stingray, bullshark or jellyfish may add unwanted excitement to your life.

Compiled by Neil Taylor

[Last modified February 1, 2007, 21:47:20]