Kayaking Articles

Safety Gear

Selecting the right equipment can and will make your outing on the water that much more comfortable, though choosing the appropriate equipment can inevitably save your life. Those items that are mandated by the United States Coast Guard for operation of a “vessel under oars” include:

• Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)       
• Sound Producing Device       
• Visual Distress Signal (Between sunset & sunrise and periods of reduced visibility)
• Navigational Lights (Between sunset & sunrise and  periods of reduced visibility)

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Life Vest / PFD

When selecting a life vest (personal floatation device, PFD), it is important not only to find a vest that fits properly, but one that will add comfort to your experience out on the water. A life vest should be U.S. Coast Guard approved, and will provide minimum buoyancy while in the water. A Type III Inshore life vest, is most commonly used for kayak fishing. The vest resembles a jacket and either buckles, or zips in the front or on sides. This type of vest has a comfortable fit and is lightweight. Type III lifejackets are generally considered the most comfortable of all Coast Guard approved life vests, and are used in calm water conditions where there is good chance of a prompt rescue.

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Aquatic Creatures to steer clear of...

Generally when we think of dangerous creatures that inhabit the water; we think of creatures such as sharks, stingrays, and barracuda.  Although these creatures are dangerous, they are not the leading cause for injury amongst aquatic visitors.  Both fresh and salt water ecosystems contain organisms that if not treated with respect can inflict pain and even cause death.

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Aquatic First Aid

The following is a generalized overview of aquatic first aid care, and by no means should be used for practicality without the proper hands-on-training that is received through certified professionals.  The Information collected has been done in a manner to give a generalized impression of lifesaving techniques, and does not fully cover in-depth the information necessary to carry out such emergency care tasks.  Thereby, the information provided is simply that; information, and is not intended for an unauthorized individual to perform.

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Environmental Awareness

Before venturing out onto the water there are numerous safety related issues that you should concern yourself with before you embark on your voyage. These issues are by and large geographically specific, and should be taken into consideration before each outing out on the water. Whether you are a kayaker, kayak angler, or just an avid outdoorsman or woman these situational conditions should be taken into consideration; in order to avoid an unfavorable situation.

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