How to Ensure Safety While Kayaking

Wilderness sports like kayaking are risky. If you're about to challenge the mighty white water, you'll need to be prepared. Having the right emergency aids could save your life. Medical attention might be far away or you could be alone with no way to get attention quickly. Be smart and take every safety precaution you can.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Dress appropriately. That frigid water will chill your body quickly. Learn what type of clothing is suitable for the rapids to avoid hypothermia.

2. Get fit for your craft. One of the biggest mistakes a person will make is to borrow a kayak from a friend. A kayak needs to fit your body. Factors like weight, height and body type all need to be taken into consideration.

3. Buckle up for safety. Personal flotation devices are literally a lifesaver but you have to be wearing the right one. Not every vest will keep a person afloat. Some life jackets are made for other types of boating. Get a PFD rated III or V.

4. Wear the right size helmet. Each helmet fits a different shape head, so it is important to get fitted properly.

5. Bring emergency strobes and lighting. If you're stranded and night falls the chances of being rescued drop dramatically. Bring waterproof lights and pre-programmed S.O.S signals. Also, take a loud whistle along with you.

6. Keep a dry bag on deck. A flint could be one of the most important life saving devices you'll carry with you. Everyday medicines, matches, dry food, first aid and extra clothing are additional items to be kept in your dry bag. Proper safety in the wilderness could save your life.

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