It’s true that with a little instruction, anyone can kayak. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy, or that you shouldn’t still have respect for the kayak and the water in which you’re paddling. When you get cocky on the river, that is when accidents happen. The rivers of the South Western United States still have some intense water pumping through them, despite a little less water, so when you head out make sure you don’t take your eye off the ball…so to speak, and always stay alert and aware. The rivers are unpredictable, and safety must come first.
Before you paddle out with DVK we’ll take you through some safety instructions so you feel comfortable on the river. Our guides are the best in the country, we won’t steer you wrong.
You’d be amazed at how many kayaking accidents happen every day when people head out on the water without taking safety into consideration. Try to Google “kayaking news”, and you’ll see an eery amount of articles come up about people who have gotten themselves into trouble because they threw caution to the wind and didn’t take the kayak or the river seriously. One major mistake that people make in a kayak is heading out alone. No matter how experienced you are, or how calm the waters may run accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere.
Safety tips for kayaking alone
Don’t get us wrong, taking a kayak out alone on the water, finding peace, working your body, melting into nature and taking in all the sounds of the river and the wildlife can be spiritual and relaxing. It’s the perfect way to shake off the hustle and grind of the day to day, but you have to take certain safety precautions, because as peaceful and quiet as it is out there all by yourself, it can quickly turn dark and scary if something should go wrong.
- Keep a cellphone inside a dry, waterproof bag
- Carry a whistle or another type of signaling device that is loud enough to be heard over the roaring river
- The rivers are still cold, so if you are trapped in the water, try to keep as much of your upper body – where all your vital organs are – out of the water. Use low hanging branches to pull yourself out, or at least halfway out of the water until rescue arrives.
- Even in a group, you should never paddle in unfamiliar waters. Stick to what you know.
- Always let someone know of you paddling plan, so that if you’re not back someone will know to alert rescue.
The best outdoor white water and kayaking guides in the US
You’ll never be paddling alone on a Dvorak white water and kayaking adventure.
When you paddle out with DVK you never paddle alone and our guides will know exactly which part of the river to take you depending on your skill level. We are the oldest guide company, and one of the best in the US. We have whitewater, kayaking, SUP, exclusive fishing, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking trips that will suit your youngest family member to the most thrill seeking outdoorsman. We’ll help you plan the trip of a lifetime. Call today to customize your summer white water rafting and kayaking adventure.