03/22/2021
If you are interested in canoeing or kayaking then, I suggest you LIKE this page: Coldspring Paddling Instruction
Great photos, advice and they teach paddling classes too
The weather is warm and I know many of you are eager to be on the water, and many were likely already out on the river this past weekend. It's great to see people out, but I want to add a few words of caution. That water is cold. Really, REALLY cold! Cold-shock-gasp-reflex-inducing cold. Everyone worries about the hypothermia, but it's the cold shock that'll be the immediate danger. Luckily, it's avoidable with a few simple steps.
• Dress for the water temperature, wear a wetsuit, or better yet, a drysuit.
• The head is a major zone inducing the cold shock gasp reflex. Wear a neoprene hood.
• Hands go numb quickly – wear neoprene gloves &/or pogies.
• Wear a lifejacket – the cold shock will incapacitate you for about a minute, wearing a life jacket keeps you at the surface while your breathing settles down.
• Any clothes and footwear should not impede swimming or getting back in the kayak or canoe.
• Go for a swim. Seriously. Think the water temperature is fine? I challenge you to test it for yourself. While you’re in the water, try getting back in your kayak, in your canoe, or on your board.
• Don't go alone and do tell someone where you are going and when you should be back.
• Wear a lifejacket – I know, I said that already but its worth repeating. Wear a lifejacket:
• Learn the 1-10-1 principle: 1 minute to control breathing, 10 minutes to save yourself/get help, 1 hour before hypothermic death becomes the main concern. The good news: dressing for immersion might avoid that cold shock gasp reflex and extend the other times.
• Have fun!
