Whitewater Kayaking Safety

Kayaking is on the rise, as it offers the best in outdoor activities full of thrills and spills. Chasing the spray meets much of today's need for exciting sports, but being responsible and knowing basic safety rules about kayaking can make the difference between a great trip and one where someone lands in an emergency situation.

Before heading to the waters for an adrenaline rush, know what you are doing. No one should practice whitewater kayaking without having learned how to actually steer your craft and get out of a tight spot or a dangerous situation. Kayaking clubs have experienced instructors that will teach you how to steer and manipulate your kayak through rapids. Never try this sport without basic training.

Always wear a helmet. The large stones in rapids are very dangerous and there is a risk of hitting your head on one if you tip over. A helmet is standard equipment for river kayaking, so always make sure you have one before hitting the rapids. Be sure that the helmet you have is one that is approved for the sport and that the adjustments have been made so that it fits correctly. Your helmet should be securely fastened. If you ever drop your helmet or have an accident and the helmet takes a knock, don't use it again. Discard your helmet in favor of a new one, as helmets are designed to take one blow.

Your next piece of standard gear is a personal flotation device. Lifejackets are designed to keep your head above water should you fall from your kayak. Never trust your ability to swim or have too much confidence that you won't suffer an emergency situation. Accidents happen to even professional kayakers. Wearing your lifejacket when you are kayaking can mean the difference between life and death.

Being overconfident and taking on white water that is above your skill level is very dangerous. Work up to higher river classifications slowly and make sure that your ability matches the hazards of the rapids. This type of responsibility goes hand in hand with checking the classification of the river before you head out on a kayaking trip. Even if others are able to handle certain sections of the rapids, know your own limits and portage around more difficult areas.

Wear the right clothing for the activity. Synthetic fabrics offer lightweight portability and a good amount of warmth. A wet suit can be an option if the water is cold. The risk of hypothermia isn't worth dressing inappropriately. You can also bring extra clothing and stow it inside your kayak, but make sure any gear carried in your watercraft is tied securely.

Always enjoy your kayaking vacation with more than one person. River kayaking is a dangerous activity and it's always best to enjoy the water with a group of people. If anything happens, you'll have help available immediately. When kayaking in a group, respect everyone's position and never pass the leader or fall behind the sweep. Safety depends on each of the group's actions and being responsible is the secret to a great vacation.

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