Safety Tips Every Kayaker Needs to Know

Kayak rentals are a great way to spend the afternoon with friends, as long as you’re being safe. Every person in your group has to understand kayaking protocols in case someone becomes injured miles away from home base. Here are a few safety tips you need to know before launching off the Venice, FL shoreline.

Dress for the weather

As with any outdoor sport, kayakers must assess upcoming weather conditions to determine how they’ll dress for the excursion. Weather can change in the middle of your kayaking trip, and you must be able to adapt on the fly. Always wear a cap and sunglasses in case the clouds break up, and dry suits will keep you comfortable in light rain or choppy waters.

Put on sunscreen and long sleeves before heading offshore to protect you from the hot Venice, FL sun. Regardless of the temperature, kayakers are advised to always wear a top with long sleeves to avoid prolonged sun exposure. For cold weather, invest in a paddle jacket and gloves.

Make a plan and stick to it

Despite all your preparation, you never know what will happen on your kayaking trip. Weather is often unpredictable, and so is the risk of injury. That’s why you should always chart a course and show it to others before heading out. If an emergency occurs, the search party will know where to find you.

Avoid deviating from your original plan unless poor kayaking conditions force you to return to shore. Tell someone at the kayak rental company where you’re going and when you’ll be back, including potential escape routes. Whether you go for a quick ride or plan a week-long excursion, a trusted individual should know your whereabouts at all times.

Assemble the right gear

Kayaking offers a ton of cool gadgets for those who are more serious about the sport. Spray skirts provide a watertight seal and stop rough waters from invading your sit-inside kayak. If you’re into fishing, essential add-ons for your kayak might include rod holders and paddle clips.

If you’re new to the world of kayaking, it’s best to stick with the basics. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned kayaker, everyone needs navigation tools like a map and compass. In case of an emergency, kayakers should bring a tow line, flares and first aid kit. A knowledgeable expert at your kayak rental company can show you how to use these tools before you head out.

Always wear a life jacket

The easiest and most important safety rule to follow is wearing a life jacket. All kayakers should wear one, even if they claim to be strong swimmers. A storm could blow over Venice, FL while you’re in the ocean and lead you to capsize. If this happens, a life jacket is the only safety device that will keep your head above choppy waves.

Your first trip on the water might sound intimidating, but a little bit of expert guidance will have you paddling like a pro in no time. The professionals at Cool Breeze Boats and Jet Ski Rentals will help you pick out the right kayak as well as educate you on basic safety procedures. Send us your questions before setting out on your next kayaking excursion.

Categorised in: Kayak Rental

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