Learning how to do a Kayak wet exit is an important safety skill for anyone who enjoys kayaking.
When your kayak capsizes and you find yourself underwater, it is crucial that you know how to safely exit the kayak and return to the surface.
In this article, we will outline the steps you need to take in order to do a safe and effective kayak wet exit. Read on for more information!
What is a kayak wet exit and why is it important to know how to do one
A kayak wet exit is a process of safely exiting a kayak when it has capsized and you are underwater.
It is important to know how to do a kayak wet exit in case of an emergency, as it can help you to get back to the surface quickly and safely.
The 10 steps you need to take in order to execute a kayak wet exit safely
In order to execute a kayak wet exit safely, you need to take the following steps:
- First thing is to stay calm and try not to panic.
- Hold on to your paddle (don’t sweat if you lose it, but retrieve it as soon as you get back on the surface) and take a quick breath of air before you go underwater.
- Lean forward (the “kissing the deck” position) when capsizing– The further you lean, the easier it is to exit.
- When you are upside down underwater, reach and grab the sides of the coaming with both hands, sliding them forward until you find the grab loop on your spray skirt.
- If you managed to secure your paddle in one hand, use your other hand to grab the sides of the coaming and slide your hand forward to locate the spray skirt.
- Once you find the loop on your spray skirt, pull it upward to release it from your kayak.
- If the loop fails to release, do not panic – just attempt again by pulling more aggressively forward and then up.
- Next, bring your knees together and release them from the thigh braces of your kayak.
- Push off the coaming with your hands in order to propel yourself forward and out of the kayak.
- Your life personal floatation device (PFD) will help to gently float you back up to the surface of the water, where you can safely re-enter your kayak or call for help if necessary.
Lean forward (the “kissing the deck” position)
Remember to practice your kayak wet exit periodically to stay calm and confident in any emergency situation on the water, and safely execute a wet exit.
8 Tips for staying safe while kayaking, including knowing how to do a kayak wet exit
Kayaking can be a fun and exhilarating experience, but it is important to stay safe while doing it. Here are some tips for staying safe while kayaking:
- Always wear a life jacket (PFD) when kayaking. This is the most important piece of safety gear you can wear, and it could save your life in an emergency situation.
- Know how to do a Kayak wet exit. This is an important safety skill that can help you get back to the surface quickly and safely if your kayak capsizes.
- Paddle with a partner- Kayaking with someone else is a great way to stay safe on the water. If something happens to one of you, the other person will be there to help.
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times and be prepared for any changing conditions.
- Be familiar with the area where you are kayaking- Know the dangers that are present in that area and take precautions accordingly.
- Take regular breaks while kayaking- Don’t push yourself too hard or try to cover too much ground in one trip. Paddle for a while, then take a break and enjoy the scenery.
- Drink plenty of water while kayaking- Dehydration can be dangerous while kayaking, so make sure you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Use common sense while kayaking- If something doesn’t feel safe or seem right, don’t do it! Trust your intuition and err on the side of caution.
Conclusion
Whether you are a seasoned kayaker or just getting started, it is important to stay safe while on the water. By following these tips and being mindful of your surroundings at all times, you can enjoy a fun and enjoyable kayaking experience without putting yourself at risk. So what are you waiting for? Grab your paddle and hit the open water!
FAQs about kayaks and wet exits
1. What is a kayak, and what are the different types of kayaks available?
A kayak is a small, lightweight boat propelled by a double-bladed paddle. There are many different types of kayaks available, including recreational kayaks, touring kayaks, fishing kayaks, whitewater kayaks, and more.
2. Will a kayak sink if filled with water?
A modern kayak is designed to be lightweight and buoyant, so it will not sink even if it is filled with water. However, the buoyancy of a kayak can decrease if it is filled with too much water, so it is important to maintain your kayak and avoid overloading it. When this happens your kayak can be in danger of sinking below the surface or capsizing, which is why it is important to know how to do a wet exit.
3. Why do kayaks have a drain plug?
The drain plug on a kayak is used to help release water from the kayak. If a kayak is overloaded, it can be in danger of capsizing. The drain plug allows water to escape from the kayak so that it does not become too heavy and tip over. This can be very important when kayaking in whitewater rapids.
4. Do self-draining scupper plugs work?
Yes, self-draining scupper plugs can be effective in helping to drain water from your kayak. They are designed to release water through small holes along the deck of the kayak and allow it to flow out freely. If you have self-draining scupper plugs on your kayak, make sure to keep them clean and clear of debris to ensure that they work properly. Additionally, be sure to check the condition of your scupper plugs before every kayaking trip and replace any that are cracked or damaged.
Leave a comment below if you have any other questions about kayaking, self-draining scupper plugs, or wet exits. We hope you enjoy your time on the water!
