Water sports are a great way to stay active and have fun, but it’s important to be safe while you’re enjoying yourself. There are a few things you can do to stay safe while you’re taking part in water sports. First, make sure you’re wearing the proper water sports safety gear. This includes, in most cases, a life jacket, buoyancy aid or personal flotation device, as well as a helmet if you’re taking part in a contact sport like waterskiing, kayaking, rafting or wake boarding. Second, be aware of your surroundings and know your limitations. Don’t push yourself beyond your comfort level and always, if possible, do your water sports activities with a buddy in case of an emergency. Finally, follow the rules and regulations of the body of water you’re in. This will help to keep everyone safe.
Water Sports Safety Advice
Summertime is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the water, whether you’re swimming, boating or just new to participating in water sports. But it’s important to stay safe while you’re enjoying yourself. Here are some tips to help you stay safe while participating in water sports:
-Wear a life jacket at all times even if you’re a strong swimmer.
-Wear the correct safety equipment for your sport. Check out our guides.
-Don’t drink alcohol before or during water sports. Alcohol impairs your judgment and coordination and can lead to accidents.
-Be aware of your surroundings and be cautious of potential hazards such as rocks, currents, waves and all other water way users. Like boats, jet skis, swimmers, kayakers, etc.
-If you’re participating in a group activity, make sure everyone knows the safety rules and has a way to signal for help if needed.
-Check the weather forecast, and plan accordingly.
Different Kinds Of Water Sports
There are a variety of different water sports that people can participate in. Some popular water sports include wild swimming, surfing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, jet skiing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, kite surfing, stand up paddle boarding, canyoning, gorge walking, sea kayaking and windsurfing. Water sports are a great way to stay active and have fun in the sun.
Water Sports Safety Equipment
There is a range of water sports safety equipment available to help keep you safe while enjoying your chosen activity. There are many potential dangers, so it is essential knowledge of every water user to know what safety gear they need for their chosen water sport activities. Whether you are swimming, surfing, sailing, kayaking or canoeing, there is something to suit your needs.
Swimming: A wetsuit will keep you warm in colder water and a tow float is essential if you are swimming in open water to increase your visibility. Gloves, socks, changing robes and more, check out our complete Outdoor Swimming Gear Guide.
Standup Paddle Boarding: A SUP board, leash, buoyancy aid and emergency paddle are the most important pieces of equipment, along with a wetsuit to keep you warm in cold water. A helmet can also be worn to protect your head if you fall in shallow or white water.
Sailing: A lifejacket or buoyancy aid is essential when sailing as well as a wet weather gear to keep you dry and warm in bad weather. A First Aid kit should also be kept on board in case of emergencies.
Kayaking: A buoyancy aid, wetsuit or dry suit and a throw bag are some of the key kayaking equipment.
Get warm fast after your water sports session with a changing robe, read our Best Changing Robe Guide.
Water Sports Safety Knife
A water sports safety knife is a knife designed specifically for water sports enthusiasts. The knife is typically made of stainless steel or titanium and has a sheath that attaches to the body, buoyancy aid, or clothing. The knife is designed to be used in an emergency situation such as when someone is caught in a fishing line or has their foot entangled in seaweed. The knife can be used to cut the person free from their entanglement. Carried by most kayakers, canoeists, divers, rafters and Stand Up Paddle boarders.
Water Sports Safety Helmet
While water sports are generally safe, there is always a risk of injury when participating in any activity that involves water. A water sports safety helmet can help to protect your head and minimize the risk of serious injury in the event of an accident. There are a variety of different types of water sports safety helmets available on the market, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for the type of water sport you will be participating in. Be sure to read the reviews of different helmets before making your purchase to ensure that you are getting a quality product. Any water sports helmet is better than no helmet.
Mobile Phone
Today’s mobile phones have lots of great equipment packet into them, including GPS, compass, maps, communications, etc. Make sure your battery is charged and if your phone is not waterproof, carry it in a dry bag for protection. Some dry bags come with a clear screen that allows access to the phone’s function even when they are inside the bag.
White Water Sports Throw Bag
Throw bags are 10, 15 or 20M stuff sacks of floating rope and they are primarily used for rescue. They can also be used for any other rope related use case. Buy one and learn to use it, it could save your life and of those around you. Safety first, always.
White Water Grades Safety
A number of water sports take place in rivers, like kayaking, rafting and SUPing. These sports enjoy the white water and rapids a flowing river can give. Knowing how to understand the river grading system is crucial. Always paddle within your limits and experience. White water is graded on a 6-point scale according to the degree of difficulty commitment and consequences associated with a particular run. Grade I rapids are easy with wide clear channels and few obstacles. Grade II rapids are also easy but may contain some larger waves and/or rocks. Grade III rapids are considered moderate with more challenging waves and/or rocks and may require some manoeuvring. Grade IV rapids are considered difficult with large waves and rocks and significant challenges in manoeuvring. Grade V rapids are considered very difficult with extremely large waves and rocks and significant danger in running them. Finally, grade VI rapids are considered extreme with huge waves and rocks and very dangerous consequences if something goes wrong.
Swift Water Rescue
Swift water rescue is the act of rescuing people from fast-moving water typically rivers and streams. It can be extremely dangerous for both the rescuers and the victims, as the water can quickly sweep away or submerge people. Swift water rescuers must be properly trained and equipped in order to safely carry out a rescue. Most high-level kayakers, rafters and water sports enthusiasts will take it upon them self to learn as much as they can about swift water rescue, enrolling themselves on safety training courses. It is rarely needed but when it is, knowing what to do and when can save many lives.
Conclusion Water Sports Safety
Every water user should be aware that nature has no love nor hate for them. She gives and she takes. Be prepared, make a plan, and take the right equipment and always steer on the side of caution.
Team Best Outdoors
