Kayakers and canoers have been advised by coastguards to include flares to attract attention among their safety gear.
Jersey Coastguard has produced top safety tips for kayakers and canoers, including taking flares or other equipment to attract attention.
It says, “Before beginning kayaking or canoeing, you should take a training course to learn the basics. Once you’ve completed your training, you can make your trips safer by following these guidelines.”
The safety tips are:
Clothing
- always wear an approved buoyancy aid
- wear appropriate clothing to prevent becoming too cold or too hot. It’s always cooler once on the water
- pack some extra clothing in a waterproof bag if you’re going out for longer periods
- if paddling near caves or in surf, wear a safety helmet
Equipment
- take some means of attracting attention, eg flares
- use a paddle leash (cord or bungee) to prevent loss of your paddle in the event of a capsize
- fit airbags into your boat to provide reserve buoyancy
- take a drink with you, ideally fresh water, on all trips and possibly some food for longer trips
- take a VHF or mobile phone in a waterproof case or bag
Weather
- only go out in conditions that are suitable to your level of experience and skills
- get a weather forecast and tidal information for the time you intend to be out
- keep a reference point on the shore to check how your position is being affected by wind or tide drift
- visit the Jersey Meteorological Department website or call +44 (0) 900 669 6666 for a six-day forecast.
It also recommends that kayakers and canoers should never paddle alone. They should log a traffic report with the Coastguard and tell someone on-shore their intended destination and expected time of return.
The image is taken from the Pains Wessex Day and Night Signal Training Animation video.
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