Kayaking, canoeing, and tubing season in Iowa is in full swing. Whether you’re new to any of these types of water recreation, or a seasoned pro, it is always important to brush up on safety guidelines every year. There are important safety laws to know as well, especially for kayaking and canoeing. Knowing these safety practices can help prevent drowning deaths and injuries. There are many causes of drowning, most of which can be avoided. Reasons given by the Iowa DNR are: lack of swimming ability, alcohol use, failure to wear life jackets, lack of barriers to unsupervised swimming areas, lack of close supervision while swimming, location, and seizure disorders. The Iowa DNR has tips on how to prevent drowning that you can share with family and friends. Safety Tip 1: Get the Right Equipment The most important safety tool on the water: a life jacket. Everyone should be wearing one or have one within reach at any time. According to the U.S. Coast Guard 2018 report, 84% of drowning victims in fatal boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket. Iowa State law requires life jackets on every watercraft, whether it’s a motorized boat, jet ski, kayak, canoe, or even a paddleboard. Wearing a life jacket can be the best way to prevent accidental drowning, especially while tubing. Being on a flotation device such as an inner tube can give a false sense of security and wearing a life jacket can save lives. For kayaking or canoeing, it is important - and can even be fun! - to get some instruction on your equipment. You can find classes online with the Iowa DNR to learn the basics and more on using your watercraft. In-person safety courses can also be a great way to meet fellow boaters and learn about fun places to try paddling in Iowa. There are also free online boating safety exams, such as this Paddle Sports Safety Course. Small things can also make your trip safer and more enjoyable, such as having appropriate water shoes that will not fall off, packing plenty of sunscreen and drinkable water, or even having a small paddle handy while river tubing. |
