The Responsible Kayaker: Float Plans and Trip Preparation

December 1997 - January 1998

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.

Float Plans

File a float plan with a responsible individual and instruct them to call RCC if you don't return by the appointed time. Call 1-800-567-5111. The float plan should consist of:

1. your name,

2. next of kin,

3. vehicle license,

4. launch point,

5. communication equipment (radio, cell phone),

6. the times that you'll be having the radio turned on/off,

7. emergency equipment on board,

8. whether you're wearing a life vest/wetsuit,

9. intended route,

10. colour of clothing/PFD/kayak,

11. how much food you're taking and

12. how long you're prepared for.

If you alter from your float plan, phone or radio in changes. Let Coast Guard (channel 16) know that you're waiting out the weather if you're going to be delayed beyond your report time.

Always notify the person with your float plan of your safe return.

Other preparations

1. Radios and flares are important pieces of equipment and should be taken by every kayaker, especially on expeditions.

2. Be sure to beach your kayak and gear well above the high tide line.

3. A rudimentary knowledge of tide tables, currents and navigation is essential for anyone going out in a kayak.

4. If your kayak or equipment goes adrift, notify the Coast Guard so that a false search and rescue isn't triggered by a concerned citizen finding your gear. Coast Guard may retrieve your gear for you or retrieve you if you're stranded.

5. Carry a light and put reflective tape on the bottom of your kayak. On a clear day a kayak is visible a quarter mile away. At night with a light on, visibility is increased to approximately 10 miles.

6. Practice self-rescue in a variety of sea conditions.

7. Carry an extra paddle, paddlefloat, and a firestarting kit and first aid kit in a water proof bag.

8. Carry extra provisions in case of stranding.

9. Light blue kayaks are most easily seen from the air because that's not a color that occurs naturally. There is a lot of yellow flotsam adrift so yellow kayaks are not as distinctive!

10. Cellphones work in Georgia Strait, but intermittently in some areas. They're not designed for off shore use.