Step by Step Explanation on performing a self rescue in Open Water

The technique described below is for performing a self rescue with a paddle float and bilge pump in open water.

The information here is not a substitute for instruction from a competent professional, but is rather a guide to use when practicing this skill. It is recommend that you practice this skill first in a controlled environment such as a pool and master it there, prior to practicing it on open water. The self rescue technique needs to practiced often to keep proficiency once it is mastered.

Equipment needed:

sea kayak

pfd

spray skirt

paddle float

paddle

bilge pump

Self rescue ocean/sea kayak

1) Perform proper wet exit
-----Grab the grab loop and pull
-----Push boat off like a pair of pants
2) Hold kayak and paddle on water surface
3) Flip kayak right side up
4) Grab paddle float place fully on paddle blade
5) Inflate paddle float
6) Insert other end of paddle under bungee and deck line (2/3 of paddle in bungees)
7) Climb onto kayak with stomach on stern deck, using one leg on paddle shaft for assistance. Note weight should always be leaning toward paddle float
8) Place both feet in cockpit, maintain a low center of gravity
9) Rotate body into proper sitting position rotating toward paddle float
10) Bilge water out of cockpit
11) Put sprayskirt back on
12) Remove paddle from under bungee cord and breakdown paddle float
13) Secure bilge pump and paddle float and continue paddling

Pura Vida Adventures offers instruction in this skill, as well as other skills used in sea and ocean kayaking, including navigation, chart and tide reading, eskimo roll, ocean entry and exit, expedition planning and logistics.

In addition to our open water kayaking courses we also offfer whitewater kayaking instruction courses.

Please contact us if interested in learning more about our services. contact@pvadventures.com 772-579-0005