Canoe and Kayak Safety Tips

As soon as warm weather arrives, many outdoor sportsmen make a beeline to beaches, rivers, and lakes for water activities. Kayaking or canoeing is a favorite pastime for many who enjoy fishing, or simply want to relax on the water. Because kayaking involves the water, it is important to adhere to specific guidelines, which can prevent life-threatening mishaps.

Kayaking Safety Tips:

• Wear a Life Vest - A kayak life vest is often overlooked by experienced swimmers. Most states require persons aboard a kayak or canoe to wear a life vest, or at least have a life vest aboard. Kayaks are lightweight. With this said, the smallest tilt or shift in movement can result in tipping. If children are aboard, make sure that a kid's life vest or a life rest for toddlers is properly secured. If kayaking with dogs, you may even consider a pet life vest.

• Weekly Weather Forecast - Never plan a kayaking trip without first checking the weather forecast for upcoming days. Even if the trip involves travel, consult online weather sites such as Accuweather.com or WeatherChannel.com for information about the weather forecast for your destination. If bad weather is expected, postpone your trip. It is very dangerous to kayak in stormy weather. Additionally, you may want to avoid hitting the water if a storm is likely to approach due to increased wind speed and rough waters.

• What is Your Skill? - Some kayakers are experienced with maneuvering the kayak through rough waters and waves. Individuals new to kayaking, or those who doubt their ability to successfully navigate in rough waters should not take unnecessary chances. If the kayak were to tip over or crash into nearby rocks, this may cause injury to self and others aboard the kayak.

• Avoid Horse Play - Once seated inside the kayak, avoid unnecessary movement. Kayaks are lightweight and small. Hence, walking around or rough playing is extremely dangerous. Board the kayak in shallow water, and then paddle out. Do not stand until you return to shallow waters and are ready to depart the kayak.

• Avoid Overloading the Kayak - Kayaks and canoes vary in size. Some are big enough to accommodate several passengers, whereas other may only accommodate two persons. Too much weight in the kayak will cause the tiny boat to gradually sink, and eventually flood. If you notice the kayak sinking, return to shore immediately. This mishap can be easily avoided by adhering to the manufacturer's recommendation about the number of passengers the kayak can safely accommodate.

• Never Kayak Alone - Although tempting, avoid venturing into the water alone. Kayaks can easily tip or crash. If kayaking alone is unavoidable, always inform another person of your whereabouts and provide an estimated return time.