If you are venturing offshore or may encounter turbulent water keep in mind the following rule of thumb: If the combined total of the air and
the water temperature is under 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius) you will want to wear a wet suit or drysuit.
Wet suit
Available in full suit, shorty and “farmer john” styles, a wet suit is composed of flexible 3 or 4mm neoprene that works by allowing a
thin layer of water between your skin and the neoprene. This layer of water is warmed by your body and helps fend off hypothermia. A wet suit
should be neither so tight that it causes restrictions of your movement, nor too loose
that it allows water to run freely into and out of the suit.
Dry suit/dry top
Available in one or two piece versions, a dry suit uses water tight gaskets
at the neck, wrist and ankles to keep you dry. A dry suits’ impermeable outer fabric
does little to help insulation, instead allowing you to wear insulating layers underneath.
Excursion planning
Safety precautions
Your personal safety, and the safety of your group, begins with you. Never paddle alone or stand up in a kayak. Be overly cautious with
children. Never allow children to kayak without adult supervision. You’ll have the most enjoyable time possible if you choose a destination
suitable for the abilities of your group. Make sure that even the least experienced paddler in your group is able to cover the distance you have
chosen to paddle and always keep in mind that changing weather conditions, winds or currents can greatly alter the characteristics of your
trip. Even the shortest excursion on the water can benefit from a minimal amount of planning so whether you’re headed out for a half hour or
a couple of days, take the time to ask yourself the following questions:
When setting out, even if it’s just for a quick afternoon paddle, take a few minutes to file a float plan. Leave information on departure/arrival
times, # of people in your group, planned destination and the color of your kayaks with a responsible friend. If setting out alone, leave an
envelope with this information labeled FLOAT PLAN on the dashboard of your car. Play it safe, respect yourself and respect the water.
Kayaker’s Code of Ethics
Kayaks allow us to experience the beauty of the water and explore areas virtually untouched by man. It is our
responsibility to keep these areas pristine during and after our visit ensuring our enjoyment, and that of others, for generations to come. This
kayaker’s code of ethics can serve as a general set of guidelines to help limit your impact on the paddling environment:
Adapt to changing weather conditions by carrying
extra clothes in a dry bag and don’t forget a good
hat to reduce your exposure to the sun.
What are the water conditions and are they likely to change?
What is the weather forecast?
Are there currents or winds we need to take into account?
What is our exposure to the elements?
Is there other vessel traffic on the waterway we should be aware of?
Is our planned trip reasonable considering our group’s experience
and abilities?
Have we brought with us all of the essential equipment and
accessories?
Have we brought along enough water and energy rich food?
Have we included warmer clothing in case the weather changes?
Do I have a method to signal/communicate?
And perhaps most importantly:
HAVE I FILED A FLOAT PLAN?
Warning: failure to follow the above safety precautions may
lead to serious injury or death. The use of alcohol or drugs
will affect your judgment and coordination and impair your
capacity to safely operate a kayak.
Try to remain courteous at all times and respect fellow kayakers as well as other vessels
Offer your help to those in difficulty
Respect private property
Never camp on an island less than 60 meters wide or that serves as a home for a colony of birds or seals
Washing should always be done away from the water, with a biodegradable soap. Do not wash anything (dishes, clothing or yourself)
directly in the water.
Use a stove rather than a fire for cooking your food
Pack out all of your trash and before leaving your campsite verify that there is no trace of your visit
For their safety and yours, stay at least 200 meters away from wildlife. Reduce your noise level and speed when observing wild animals