Man Dies After Falling Out of Kayak
In Overland Park, Kan., last Friday evening, a man was reported missing around 6 p.m. after falling from a kayak on the Blue River. He had been on the water with another kayaker when he hit an obstruction at a bridge-construction site and fell overboard and was not seen again. Rescue crews from Overland Park & Leavwood Fire Departments in a water-rescue boat discovered the man’s body downstream.
Disturbing Trend
The fatality is the latest in a spate of accidents and fatalities that have taken place on kayaks and other paddle craft early in the 2020 boating season, according to U.S. Coast Guard MAD Reports. Kayaks and canoes have been capsizing at alarming rates. Some victims had been wearing lifejackets, while others weren’t, but the fact remains that people seem to have a false sense of security when heading out on the water in a kayak.
We have seen many images of kayaks being carried on larger vessels. People use them as toys, but don’t always know how to properly use a kayak or learn the proper techniques for turning one over if it does capsize.
Learn the Basics
The website oceankayak.com has a checklist that it recommends for newcomers and seasoned paddlers. Some highlights include learning proper paddling techniques, basic water safety and first aid. “Brush up on self-rescue first in calm, warm, shallow water, and again in more extreme conditions,” the site says.
Most important is that kayakers should always wear a lifejacket. U.S. Coast Guard regulations require that all kayaks have a lifejacket on board. BoatTEST.com recommends that anyone on a kayak wear it at all times. Wearing a lifejacket helps keep a person’s head above water and it adds insulation that can keep a person warmer in cold water.
There are PFDs designed specifically for paddling that fit better and allow more freedom of movement for kayaking and other paddle sports.
Be Smart
Just as with other boats, a kayaker should let someone on land know of his or her plans and give details of how long he/she plans to be out and how many people are in the party. Check the forecast for any possible changes in conditions including weather and tides.
If a kayaker plans to paddle in surf zones or rivers with white water, wear a helmet.
Bring provisions including plenty of food and water, sun block and a first aid. Just as with other boats, have a means of communications other than a cell phone. This could be a handheld VHF radio, flares or a signaling device. Also, have a tow line in case.