Kayaking Safety & Rescue Equipment

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
  Your PFD is the most important piece of Kayaking Gear as far as safety is concerned. Whether you are into Sea Kayaking or Whitewater Paddling, this buoyancy aid should be worn at all times. It can mean the difference between life and death, so it’s important to buy a PFD that is reliable, durable, and fits you properly.


• Helmet
  Use sturdy and correctly-fitted head gear to protect your head throughout the trip.


• Flares
  These are safety torches which emit bright-colored smoke for around 10 or 15 minutes. They can be aerial, smoke, or handheld, and are used to attract attention at sea. When paddling offshore, make sure to carry flares which are within their use-by date.


• Strobe lights
  A Strobe light is a necessary safety device. It produces regular flashes of light which are recognizable over long distances.


• Whistle
  Aside from visual signals, you can also use sound to attract attention especially in times of distress. The use of a whistle can draw attention to yourself so you can get help.


• Throw line / Throw bag
  A throw bag is a pouch filled with rope which is used in rescue operations. This serves as the link between the rescuer and the kayaker overboard. It is an indispensable piece of rescue equipment in Kayaking, Rafting, and other water sports.


• Towline
  This is a useful addition to your gear. A towline is a rope used in towing a boat. It will enable you to help other paddlers when they encounter problems with their boats, or when you need to bring a boat back to shore.


• Knife
  Bring a knife to cut the towline, or any cord or rope, when needed. You can carry a fixed-blade knife but folding knives are preferred as these are easier to carry.