What Is the Likelihood of Drowning For Paddlers in Canoes and Small Kayaks?

Canoes and small kayaks pose a variety of dangers, and it is essential that you know what these are before you set out on the water. While you may have learned the basics of river safety, a small boat may not be as safe as you think, and a lack of eddies can cause a swimmer to drown. The lack of eddies can also result in shoulder injuries, lost gear, and other accidents. Paddlers can careen into rocks below falls, entangling themselves in vertical pins, or even drown. Additionally, snagging hazards such as rusted or cabled logs can be dangerous. cheap kayaks for fishing

In addition to wearing a life jacket, paddlers should wear proper clothing and learn how to handle the craft properly. One of the leading causes of drowning in small boats is dehydration. Dehydration results from poor water intake and excessive sweating. Lack of water can lead to cell death. Fortunately, many canoe accidents can be avoided by following these simple tips.

If you plan to paddle on long distances in your canoe, leave a float plan with details of your destination and vessel. Also, don’t crowd the water. If you feel overwhelmed or confused, back paddle. If you come across an obstruction, try to remain calm and lean toward it. Avoid pushing away because that will invite the flow to come in faster and pin you.

Another important consideration for kayakers is the temperature of the water. Most people aren’t aware of the temperature difference between the water surface and the bottom. The surface is much warmer because heat rises. The bottom water temperature can be five to 20 degrees colder than the surface. The temperature difference can be dangerous enough to cause death in a kayak. A life jacket can help keep drowning victims above the surface.

In small boats, paddlers are twice as likely to drown as paddlers in larger vessels. A large majority of accidents involving paddlers in small boats involve capsizing. Often, these accidents result in catastrophic injuries, including drowning. If you’re not careful, you could end up in a pool of water that is too shallow. If this happens, you’ll be very glad you were wearing a life jacket.

Logs present a number of risks. Log structures with multiple logs increase the risk of entrapment. An eddy between two logs is less likely to entrap a paddler than a structure with three or more logs. Logs that form a spanning structure usually require portage. It also creates sieves and siphons.