The Big 5 Sea Safety Tips

• Self sufficiency [An approved buoyancy device and paddle float for self rescue in the event of wet exit, where possible spare paddles ]
• Tell others where you are going [Even on exped you can have check in points]
• Carry some means of calling for help?[EPIRB, SPOT, Sat Phone, VHF radio]
• Monitor position, tides and weather [Check tides, understand local features, on tricky elements then watch waves through their cycle, watch weather, know your position – GPS, Chart and Compass]
• Wear appropriate clothing for the conditions [there is no such thing as bad/cold weather just the wrong clothing – make sure you have layers, additional clothing, bivvy bags, hats, emergency shelter, if you are leading then think group]

Sea Survival

You should be aware of the following:

• Wear appropriate clothing for conditions (see our Big 5 Sea Safety Tips) – this will make the difference as to how long you survive if you swim
• 1:10:1 Rule - If you end up in the drink (water) then be aware of the 1:10:1 rule, 1 minute to get your breath, cold water immersion will mean you gasp, 10 minutes of useful tasks before your fingers and extremities stop being effective, 1 hour before hyperthermia sets in
• Carry an emergency bag that you can access from the water on your kayak – this should include a bivvy bag, you can get in this in the water and float with it tight around your body, you will conserve heat, other useful items might include a strobe and flares
• Try and protect your core temperature – keep your arms crossed and maintain core temperature, thrashing about will use energy and increase heat loss.