Safety First
Your safety is our top priority at Pad-Kay. Whether you're paddling a kayak or gliding on a paddleboard, please review and follow these essential guidelines before, during, and after your outing.
1. Equipment Checklist
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Always properly wear your life jacket.
Whistle or Sound Device
For signaling in case of emergency located on the life jacket.
Leash (for paddleboards)
Attach the board leash to your ankle or calf to stay connected if you fall off.
2. Pre-Departure Safety
Inspect Your Gear
Look for cracks, leaks, or loose fittings on the craft.
Ensure PFD straps and buckles function correctly
Know the Weather
Check forecasts for wind, tides, and storms.
Postpone if winds exceed 15 mph or if thunderstorms are predicted
Share your float plan (departure time, route, and return time) with someone onshore.
3. On-the-Water Guidelines
Stay Seated or Balanced
In kayaks, keep your center of gravity low by sitting upright and bracing your knees. On paddleboards, start on your knees if you're a beginner, then rise slowly.
Maintain Safe Distances
Keep at least 15m from powerboats, swimmers, and other watercraft. Never follow motorboats too closely—wake turbulence can capsize small craft.
Be Aware of Currents & Tides
Paddle parallel to shore if currents are strong. Allow extra time to return against tide or current.
4. Emergency Protocols
Capsize Drill
Stay calm, hold onto your craft, and perform a self-rescue or await assistance.
Distress Signals
Three short whistle blasts or paddle taps = "I need help." Waving arms overhead also attracts attention.
Call for Help
Use your phone from shore or shout to nearby boats.
5. Environmental Considerations
Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash, including biodegradable items.
Invasive Species Prevention
Clean gear with fresh water after each trip.
Wildlife Respect
Maintain a 45 m buffer from nesting birds and marine mammals.
Quick Safety Reminders
Essential safety points to remember before every paddling adventure
Wear PFD
Always properly wear your life jacket
Check Weather
Monitor conditions before departure
Share Plans
Tell someone your route and return time
Keep Distance
Maintain safe distance from boats
Emergency Signal
Know how to call for help
Respect Nature
Leave no trace, protect wildlife