There is nothing like watching the sun rise over the calm cool waters of your favorite kayaking or SUP spot. That relaxing connected feeling that overwhelms you as you paddle out with the fish jumping and the birds singing all around just starts your day off right. Or maybe you prefer those sunset paddles to unwind after a stressful day.
While nature offers your soul so much peace, it can also catch you unaware if you’re not ready for those ever changing conditions and become an uncomfortable or downright dangerous situation.
It was midafternoon on the first warm spring day of the season. You know, the kind of day that just makes your whole body scream “Go for a paddle”!
We had suffered from a really long, very gray and snowy winter and it seemed like the whole town was needing to be playing outside.
I got off work a bit early and met a friend down at the waterfront for an afternoon kayaking trip on the Columbia River.
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Mostly blue skies and a steady wind met us there. Even though the air temperature was in the mid 60’s I knew the water would be cold since glacial snowmelt always keeps the river chilly. My friend and I dressed for the water and headed upwind to get our workout in while we were still fresh.
It wasn’t long before we reached the section of the river that features a tree garden with stumps right below the water’s surface, just past that is a tucked away inlet and shallows where you can get a great view of the Columbia Hotel that has a waterfall off the backside of it.
As we came around the bend I noticed a young pair of tourists.
They were dressed in cotton t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. It was clear the beautiful day called them out to the water as well. But they didn’t seem to be having as much fun as we were!
We found out they were in town visiting friends and had borrowed a kayak to get out on the water. They had flipped their kayak in the tree garden and then dragged it into the inlet and were resting and trying to get the water drained out.
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And sadly, there were not a lot of sunny spots in this area so it was very clear that they were COLD! They were wet, shivering, and tired.
Luckily, I had a fleece layer in my drybag and offered that up to one while my friend offered his paddling jacket to the other. We shared some granola bars, fruit and some water and offered to accompany them to the takeout to make sure that they were ok.
We got them back to their car, but it was clear that they were worn out and really didn’t think this was how their day would turn out.
What could have happened if they didn't get help?
Cold water immersion creates a specific condition known as immersion hypothermia. It develops much more quickly than standard hypothermia because water conducts heat away from the body 25 times faster than air.
Typically people in warmer climates don’t consider themselves at risk from hypothermia in the water, but hypothermia can occur in any water temperature below 70°F. It can impact people of all ages and fitness, including even the most capable swimmers.
These conditions can adversely affect the body's ability to function properly, thereby increasing the risk of drowning.
In most countries, it reflects the third most common cause of unintentional death in adults and the second most common in children, with approximately 500 000 immersion-related deaths occurring internationally every year (Bierens et al, 2002; Shattock and Tipton, 2012).
The water can be a dangerous place if you’re not well prepared. We’ve compiled our top 10 water safety products you’ll need to make sure your day of adventure is worry free
Why it is important?
Personal floatation devices are essential/required for water sports and fun. Added buoyancy on the water helps assist in swimming and prevents hundreds of drownings every year.
Our pick: The NRS Ninja is a low profile PFD that fits both men and women comfortably. It's a simple, no frills lifejacket making it perfect for whitewater kayaking, SUP, recreational kayaking, and rafting.
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Why it is important?
For more high impact watersports, helmets are essential/required to protect yourself from any unexpected slips, trips, bumps, falls, or impacts. More and more people are using helmets for watersports and there are many varieties and styles to choose from.
Our pick: The NRS Havoc helmet is a standard but durable helmet to protect your noggin. Inexpensive and safe. Lots of colors to choose from and is a universal fit for a wide range of head sizes.
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Why it is important?
Most people don’t associate watersports with any sort of footwear, but taking care of your feet is a critical safety aspect in watersports. Being able to move freely about on any surface safely can help protect your feet from any cuts or scrapes that can end your day.
Our pick: Lightweight, low-profile, and super flexible, The Astral Loyak water shoes have a self-draining outsole promotes excellent balance and ground feel. But also looks good when out on the town!
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Why it is important?
When out on the water on a good day, more often than not you are exposed to the sun. If you don’t protect yourself well, bad sunburns and dehydration can actually play a big role in your safety and not enough people realize that sun protection equates to safety.
Our pick: The NRS silkweight hoodie provides SPF 50+ protection while still being breathable and comfortable, keeping you cool and protected on the water.
Mens
Women
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Why it is important?
When it comes to water safety, most people don’t think about hats. But when you are out on calmer waters, you are usually the most exposed to the sun. While sunscreen helps, hats are much more effective and will protect you when out on the water. Lack of protection can lead to burns and dehydration.
Our pick: The Kokatat Hydrus Seawester Kayak Hat has a wide brim, bungee toggle to hold it on your head, and breathable waterproof material making it ideal for a day out on the water.
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Why it is important?
Be prepared for any unplanned emergencies with a safety kit, bringing you at best peace of mind and at worst, life saving tools to help get you out of a tough situation.
Our pick: The NRS Deluxe Touring Safety Kit has the essentials every beginner or experienced paddler needs. Bilge pump, paddle float, paddle leash, sponge, and whistle are all found within the handy deckbag.
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Why it is important?
If you need to escape the elements, stay warm, or signal rescuers so you're easy to find, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got your survival kit with you.
Our pick: Adventure Medical Kits SOL Scout Survival Kit allows you to broadcast your location up to ten miles away, start campfires & camp stoves,has a mini roll of duct tape to repair gear or yourself, contains a heat-reflective two-person survival blanket to provide warmth & shelter and more. It’s an essential on any day on the water.
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Why it is important?
You never know when someone might need help out on the water and when they do, throw them a rope!
Our pick: The NRS Pro Compact Throw Bag is an excellent choice for anyone planning for swiftwater rescue work where light weight and a strong rope are desirable.
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Why it is important?
It’s so easy to get dehydrated when you are surrounded by water. Keep up that hydration with a portable hydration pack.
Our pick: The CRUX Hydration Reservoir delivers 20 percent more water per sip to power longer adventures. The Easy Open/Close Leak-Proof Cap and Leak-Proof On/Off Lever ensures there's water when you want it, and none when you don't.
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Why it is important?
You never know when the weather might turn on you, even the calmest looking days can turn out to be unpredictable.
Our pick: The Kokatat Hydrus Storm Cag, a one-piece combination jacket and spray skirt cover is designed to be worn over existing clothing and your PFD in inclement weather on or off the water.
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1. Dress for immersion in the water, not just the air temperature.
2. Dress in layers to make it easy to add or remove layers for all day comfort
3. NO COTTON. Synthetic or wool clothing only
4. Actually WEAR your lifejacket, don’t just strap it to your boat
5. Bring a whistle, mirror, headlamp or some other signal device especially when paddling in low light situations
6. Check the weather before you head out on the water. Be prepared for changes in conditions or temperatures
7. Bring water and a snack if you’re gonna be out all day
8. Paddle with a friend. It’s safer and a lot more fun!