Paddle Float Rescue

Kayaking is a nice leisurely exercise that is great for all ages and all experiences, but there are inherent risks that you are taking when you chose to put a small boat onto the great blue ocean. Even the most experience sea kayakers may flip from time to time so always try to hit the water with someone, and make sure that you have someone on shore who is expecting you back at a certain time and knows the proper steps to follow should you be an hour overdue.

However there are ways to perform self rescues should you find yourself upside down with no shore in sight. One of the most effect rescues for sea kayakers is known as the Paddle Float Rescue. This is a rescue that can be performed with one person, and in slightly choppy waters (but it does get trickier!). 

We found a video depicting the paddle float rescue. While this is a great rescue, it can be difficult if you  are not experienced and haven't practiced this particular rescue before so we encourage you to take a look so that if you ever find yourself in need of a rescue, you will at least have seen this one before.

Watch the video for a demo on how to do the rescue.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8fGu7EdhPc

The only addition I would make to this video tutorial is to emphasize the need to keep your weight on the paddle float. If you don't and accidentally place too much weight on the side of the boat opposite of where you are entering, you get the infamous 'yellow rainbow' which the video tutorial took the time to show you.

Ocean water can be quite cold so you want to minimize how much time you spend in the water. If you cannot get into your boat, get your feet on the paddle float and get most of your body out of the water. This will give you more time out of the water and provides an opportunity to blow on a whistle, or signal nearby boats that you are trouble.

Remember, anytime you take a boat on the ocean there are risks. Dress for the water temperature, and always prepare for getting wet even if you don't plan on it. Make sure that you are either with someone, or there is someone on land that is waiting for you to get back. 

Hope you have found this information helpful and we wish you the best of luck on the water.

Stay safe and we hope to see you in the sea kayaking community.

-Maine Kayak