In this video we share the most important safety equipment you should consider when you go kayaking. A life vest or PFD is an absolute must and every kayaker should have and use one.
Most kayakers also should use a helmet, although there are cases where a helmet is not absolute necessary. If you are kayaking on the coast in calm water and no rocks nearby then a helmet might not be mandatory. However in a lot of cases we would definetly recommend wearing a helmet to protect yourself from accidental paddle bashes from you or a fellow kayaker.
We highly recommend bringing a basic first aid kit to your kayaking adventure. Accidents can always happen while kayaking and you never know if you need medical supplies for yourself or someone else.
Next on the list is a GPS or map and compass. Make sure that you use a GPS that is waterproof. If you do not have a GPS you can also take map and compass to maintain your orientation and to stay on track.
Our next safety item is a flashlight, flare or other form of lighting. We do not recommend that you kayak at night. However it can get dark, cloudy or foggy during day as well. If that happens you should have a flashlight handy so you see your way and also so you can be seen by other kayakers.
The following safety gear is a bilge pump. If you have a sit-inside kayak and you get water inside it can be quite a challenge to get it out again. Therefore the bilge pump was invented. With this little pump you'll get your cockpit dry again within a few short minutes.
In case you want to call for help you should also have a whistle in you kayaking safety kit. Make sure the whistle is loud enough to attract potential helpers even if there is the noise of waves and wind.
Not only you need to be kept safe but also your personal possessions. That is why our next safety item is a dry bag. Dry bags are waterproof bags that were designed so that kayakers can protect their valuables, electronics, clothes and food from moisture.
Our last safety item is a throw bag or tow bag. This is a bag with a strong, long rope inside. The purpose of the tow bag is to rescue fellow kayaker who capsized into the water by throwing the bag in the water and towing them in. Another usage of the tow bag is to apply it as a tow if another kayaker got tired. Simply connect the front of one kayak with the back of another. Now one kayaker can pull two boats and get both of you home safe.
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