Paddlecraft
Why Safety is Paramount
Paddlesport participation has grown dramatically in recent years. Low entry cost, easy storage, less maintenance and flexibility are some of the reasons many people have decided to become paddlers, compared to power or sailing craft. Paddlesports are on the rise, setting a records for the number of participants.
About 22 million Americans — 7.4 percent of the population — enjoy paddling. Kayaking, Stand Up Paddleboarding and kayak fishing have grown dramatically.Between 90,000 and 105,000 canoes and 350,000 kayaks are sold annually, according to industry figures.
However, all of this growth in paddlesports has a dark side. Unlike power boats, with the growth in paddlesports, the number of fatalities has gone up.
Kayak Safety Checklist
- Kayak—check for leaks in hull and cracks or tears in hatch seals and gaskets. Make sure drain plug is
- properly in place, if any. Check deck lines for wear and tear.
- Paddle (1 per paddler), plus spare
- Life jacket (1 per paddler) with attached whistle
- Flotation bags—inflated and installed
- Spray skirt
- Dry bags (for gear organization)
- Weather/VHF radio
- Signaling devices (whistle, mirror, flares or distress flag)
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Towline/floating throw line (with throw bag)
- Paddle leash
- Paddle float
- Bailer or bilge pump
- Sponges
- Maps and charts in waterproof case
- Compass—hand held or mounted
- GPS
- Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
- Matches/lighter/fire starter in waterproof container
- Knife or multi-tool
- Cell phone in protective bag
- Multifunction watch
- First-aid supplies
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Water bottles (filled half way)
- Energy food (bars, gels, trail mix)
- Beverages, non-alcoholic
- Sealant
- Spare foot peg
- Bailing wire (copper, small roll)
- Nylon cord (or bungee cords)
- Putty
- Replacement nuts/bolts
- Repair/duct tape