Kayak Rescue

A lot of people capsized and had to be rescued on Sunday August 7th at our monthly kayak club meet.

Over 20 people of all ages turned up and most were willing to get wet. In order for kayakers to keep safe themselves and be of help to other kayakers in trouble it is important to learn a few safety skills. This includes getting out of a capsized kayak and getting back in again.

Even the young children learned how to exit a capsized kayak

If out on the water with one or more other kayakers it is also important to know how to rescue someone. We were taught various methods as well as how to tow a kayak, carry a person on a kayak, aid an incapacitated kayaker and assist with emptying kayak full of water and helping a kayaker back into their boat.

Rescue techniques for saving a kayaker in the water

“It’s your turn to get wet” Roles are reversed as practicing rescue techniques is continued

All this was good fun but has a serious side as when taking a trip everyone feels confident enough. Even the young children were taught the basics of getting out of a kayak, a skill that will serve them well in the future.