It's important to practice good safety techniques when kayaking. While falling out of a kayak or having it capsize may be a rare event, it does happen. It's important to be prepared. A simple device, called a paddle float, can help you get back into a kayak from the water. With the float, you use your paddle as a support to lift yourself out of the water and into the cockpit of your kayak. Paddle floats are relatively inexpensive. Having one stowed in your kayak can make a self-rescue a lot easier.
Step 1
Once you have exited the kayak, position yourself next to it. Maintain a grip on both the kayak and your paddle; you'll need the paddle to get back into the kayak.
Step 2
Locate and retrieve the paddle float from the cockpit of the kayak. Loosen the valve on the inflation stem and blow into the stem to inflate one side of the float. When completely inflated, tighten the valve. Repeat this step for the other side of the float.
Step 3
Slide one of the paddle blades into the sleeve in the paddle float. Use the clips on the float to secure it to the paddle.
Step 4
Flip the kayak over by reaching under the kayak and grabbing the far edge of the cockpit. Pull the cockpit edge toward you sharply and push the near side up to flip the kayak back into position.
Step 5
Place the end of the paddle without the float onto the kayak and behind the cockpit, with the paddle float out to the side to form an outrigger.
Step 6
Position yourself next to the kayak, near the paddle and away from the cockpit. Pull yourself up, while kicking, so that you are on top of the kayak. At the same time, hook your foot over the paddle, using the paddle float and handle as a support.
Step 7
Stay low on the top of the kayak to avoid tipping over. Work your way up onto the kayak and insert your legs into the cockpit, one at a time. Continue to use the paddle float and handle as a support.
Step 8
Rotate your body to face forward and slide into the cockpit. Keep the paddle float in place and use the paddle to stabilize the kayak as you bail any water. Refit your cockpit skirt. Remove and deflate the paddle float and stow it properly.
Things You'll Need
- Kayak
- Paddle
- Paddle float
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