Kayakers, canoeists stay safe: Know your limits, always wear a life jacket
Published 10:44 am Thursday, February 11, 2010
With recent news of a canoeist drowning in Washington waters, the Washington State Parks Boating Programs reminds paddlers to always wear life jackets and be prepared before heading out on the water.
A man drowned in Whatcom County on Jan. 29, after the canoe he was paddling in with another man overturned on Lake Padden. The accident is still under investigation. Whatcom County Sheriff’s officials have confirmed that life jackets were in the canoe, but the men were not wearing them at the time of the accident. The second canoeist was rescued. According to Detective Steve Harris, the surviving boater said the men were able to cling to the overturned canoe but were not able to retrieve their lifejackets. After several minutes, hypothermia began to set in.
As more people are enjoying using kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft, the number of paddle-craft accidents also increases. In the past ten years, more than a third of the boating fatalities in Washington involved non-motorized watercraft. In 2009, seven of 22 boating fatalities were people in non-motorized vessels.
Boating safety experts advise that the most important safety measures on the water involve skill development, preparedness and wearing a life jacket.
“In cold water and cold weather conditions, wearing a life jacket is a fundamental component of all safe recreational boating activities, including synthetic layers worn under a dry suit for warmth and protection from the elements,” said Dan Henderson, a member of the Washington State Boating Safety Council.
The Washington State Parks Boating Programs provides training and outreach to Washington boaters all over the state. Here are tips for anyone recreating in a non-motorized watercraft such as a canoe or kayak:
• Wear it – Wear a properly fitting life jacket. There are a variety of life jackets out there so make sure you understand how the life jacket will perform in the type of water you are in. Make sure it is in good condition. A type III life jacket is recommended for paddlers.
• Know before you go – Various canoes and kayaks are designed to be paddled in specific conditions. Make sure your boat is appropriate for your intended use. Check the weather, know the waters you plan to paddle, and file a float plan. Rivers are dynamic in nature and change often, so scope out the river before you enter it.
• Pay attention – Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you encounter other vessels. A little research about the body of water can go a long way in preventing an accident from happening.
• Be prepared for cold water – Washington waters are about 40 degrees or lower during the winter months. It is important to conserve your body heat. Dress in warm clothing such as a hat sweater/sweatshirt, wet suit, and bring along some dry clothes in a waterproof container. Wearing your life jacket will not only help save your life, but help keep you warm and provide you with the right flotation should you fall into the water.
• Never boat under the influence –You should always be a responsible, safe and sober boater.
• Expect the unexpected – Know what to do if you find yourself in the waters. Stay calm and stay with the boat.
