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5. Sea Kayaking Safety Guide - TP 14726
6. Recovery

Recovery

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Don’t underestimate the fatigue factor, especially if you don’t go sea kayaking regularly. If your muscles cease to respond, drink some water, eat some energy-rich food, and, if possible, try to reach the shore to rest.

In case of extreme fatigue, you and your kayak can be towed by another kayak using the heaving line that you are required to carry with you at all times. The most experienced paddler of the group will tow you by attaching one end of the cord to his body and the other end to the bow of your kayak. This method is physically very demanding on the paddler and is intended solely for the purposes of transporting an exhausted person to a safe place as fast as possible.

The rafting technique consists of all kayakers of a group drawing their kayaks close together, each holding on to the next kayak. The entity as a whole is relatively stable and allows for each to rest without having to worry too much about losing balance.

When the sea starts to become rough, you will start to sense difficulties in maintaining your balance. At this point, you should apply the leaning technique: place one side of the paddle on the surface of the water and push it towards the bottom to stabilize yourself. Withdraw the paddle diagonally out of the water and continue moving forward, which also helps you to maintain your balance.

Should you still find yourself in trouble, don’t panic. It is almost easier to get out of a tipped-over kayak than it is to get out of one that is right side up. However, to get out of a kayak while right side up: Grab the ring in front of your spray apron and pull it towards you. Place one hand on each side of the cockpit and, leaning forwards, thrust yourself out of the kayak. When you return to the surface, keep in touch with your kayak and wait for help from your companions.

A paddle float will allow you to restabilize your kayak by yourself. Inflate it and place it at the end of the paddle that reaches into the water. Place the other end onto the kayak: the paddle is now perpendicular to the kayak, at the height of the cockpit. Using the paddle as a support, hoist yourself onto the kayak and into the cockpit. Pump the water out of the kayak into the sea and replace the spray apron.

Naturally, these self-help procedures are easier said than done. We strongly urge kayakers to practice these techniques in controlled settings before starting out. And once again, for your safety, nothing can replace training and experience.

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Date modified:

2010-01-19

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