Kayaking has become one of the most popular summer activities, and it’s no wonder why. It’s a fun way to enjoy time with friends and family without spending money on gasoline or those expensive theme park tickets! However, just like when biking or swimming, there are inherent risks to kayaking that you should be aware of.
One of the most dangerous things you can do while kayaking is going out on the water without wearing your flotation device or life jacket. Here’s why that safety precaution is so important and how wearing your kayak life jacket will keep you safe if you end up in the water.
What is a life jacket?
A life jacket is a personal flotation device (PFD) that is an important piece of safety equipment that can help keep you safe in the event of an accident. Wearing a life jacket when kayaking can help prevent drowning or other injuries if you capsize or fall out of your kayak. Life jackets provide buoyancy and help keep your head above water, making it easier to swim to safety or be rescued.
It is important to choose a life jacket that is properly sized and fits snugly, as loose-fitting life jackets can increase the risk of drowning. Be sure to check the fit and condition of your life jacket before each kayaking trip, and always wear it when paddling.
Facts about Injuries from Kayaking
Most kayaking injuries are minor, but they can still be painful and dangerous. The most common kayaking injuries include bruises, scrapes, and cuts. However, more serious injuries, such as concussions and broken bones, can also occur. Wearing a life jacket can help prevent these more serious injuries by keeping you safe in the event of a fall.
In addition to wearing a life jacket, it is important to wear sunscreen on your hands and face before going out on the water. Sunburns will make your skin dry and cracked when it’s exposed to cold water again. You should also wear clothes that dry quickly after getting wet or sweaty, so you don’t get cold later on. And remember that even though summer is coming up, it’s important to stay hydrated while kayaking during any season!
Relationship Between Health and Safety
Most people would never think twice about strapping on a life jacket before going for a swim. But when it comes to kayaking, many people seem to forget about this important safety measure. Wearing a life jacket can mean the difference between life and death if you capsize or fall out of your kayak.
Along with making sure you float in the water, wearing a life jacket will also help keep your head above water as well as keep you warm and comfortable in cold water. What’s more, wearing a life jacket may even prevent injury by keeping your upper body from slamming into things in the event of an emergency.
Things to Remember While Buying a Personal Floatation Device
There are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind while shopping for a personal flotation device (PFD). First, consider the type of kayaking you’ll be doing. If you’ll be paddling in whitewater or rough waters, you’ll need a different flotation device than if you’re only going to be kayaking on calm lakes.
Think about your size and weight when choosing a floatation device. You’ll want a comfortable one that won’t impede your movement. Consider the features of the floatation device, such as storage pockets, whistles, etc. Finally, try the floatation device on before you buy it to make sure it fits properly.
How To Choose The Right PFD
There are many different types of PFDs (personal flotation devices) on the market, so it’s important to choose one that is comfortable and will fit properly. You also want to make sure that the PFD you choose is appropriate for the type of kayaking you’ll be doing. For example, if you’ll be kayaking in whitewater, you’ll need a different floatation device than if you’ll be kayaking in calm waters.
A few other things to keep in mind when choosing your floatation device include how much it weighs, how well it fits around your waist, the amount of buoyancy foam or material inside, and its resistance to tears or punctures.
Advantages of Using PFDs
One major advantage of using PFDs, or personal flotation devices, is that they provide additional buoyancy in the water. This can be extremely helpful if you find yourself capsized or in rough waters and need some help staying afloat. In addition to providing more buoyancy, these items are also able to hold an individual’s head out of the water when waves are large.
Another benefit is that they are made to stretch and will conform to your body’s shape as you wear them more often. A lot of brands also offer children’s versions, which makes them perfect for families who like to spend time on the water together. Be sure to read up on what type would work best for you before purchasing a new floatation device so that it provides the maximum amount of protection.
Are all PFD the same?
No, all PFDs are not the same. Some are designed for specific activities, like kayaking. And within the category of kayaking, there are different types designed for different styles of kayaking. So it’s important to do your research and find the right one for you and your kayaking adventures.
For InstanceIf you’re planning on recreational kayaking on lakes or flat water, choose a Type I general purpose or Type II rescue style life jacket. If you’re going out into more challenging conditions where there may be rough waves or lots of boat traffic, choose a Type III high performance type.
Conclusion
A kayak life jacket is an essential piece of safety gear for anyone who plans on spending time on the water. Wearing a life jacket can help prevent drowning in the event of capsizing or falling overboard. It is also important to wear a life jacket when kayaking in cold water, as it can help protect against hypothermia. In short, always wear a life jacket when kayaking, no matter what the conditions are like.
