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1. Get expert instruction before using a boat.
No person is born knowing. It is always advisable to talk to the expert on a specific topic, in this case kayak navigation, and take advantage of those years of experience to avoid making basic mistakes.
2. Always wear a life jacket.
At first glance, it may seem that the life jacket should only be used in white and/or deep water, but no. The life jacket is a mandatory element in any aquatic activity, and we never know when we may have any problem. A river may seem very gentle, and yet harbor currents that can cause us problems if we are not warned.
3. Make sure you are dressed appropriately
Depending on the season and the area, we can simply go with swimwear, or it will be necessary to wear a neoprene suit, to appease the low temperatures of both the environment and the water. Likewise, if the heat is excessive, it is highly recommended to cover our heads to avoid suffering sunstroke, and to be careful with burns (don't forget the sunscreen).
4. Make sure you know basic first aid techniques, have a first aid kit, and safety and rescue equipment.
If we do not go with an expert guide to take care of these elements, we must do it ourselves. And we may encounter a medical emergency in the middle of nature, where help will take time to arrive. To do this, you must learn the basic first aid techniques, and carry a first aid kit in the watertight drum.
5. Carefully check your equipment before using it.
If we check the material before each use, we will be able to detect in time any anomaly (breakage, wear, etc.) and avoid thus possible >accidents. It is essential to review the equipment before each outing.
6. Never row alone.
Even if we think we are very capable, we must avoid solo outings, since, in case of an accident or any mishap, no one else will not be able to give us help, nor notify the emergency services, which puts us at unnecessary risk.
7. If you paddle a kayak on a lake, don't go far from the coast.
As in any large body of water, currents can form in lakes that can complicate navigation. It is preferable to row along the coast, since if we go inland, we may encounter dangers that we will avoid otherwise. .
8. If you do not have experience in mountain rivers, always paddle in the company of an expert. No matter how easy the river seems, there are dangers that you could not identify.
Mountain rivers can be very unpredictable, and present extreme variations in very short stretches. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to know the section in which you are going to navigate. If you do not have this knowledge, you will have to be accompanied by a professional guide.
9. Be especially careful during and after flooding. Anticipate climate changes.
The characteristics of the rivers are greatly affected by floods. Therefore, navigation is very complicated at those times. Avoid it as much as possible, and if not, go accompanied by an expert guide who can advise you at all times.
10. Be honest with yourself, do not exceed your abilities.
Nobody knows you better than yourself. Be honest with yourself, and think how far you can go. Do not take unnecessary risks by wanting to reach places for which you are not prepared.
Kayak descent is a fascinating sport, and it will provide you with moments unforgettablewith nothing to fear, as long as you follow this simple decalogue.
Always keep this advice in mind: fun is not at odds with safety.
Don't forget it!
