By Kassii Watta
- Take an on-water course
- Learn how to be safe in cold water
- Learn re-entry techniques in case you cap size
- Turn bow into strong waves to avoid capsizing
- Learn the universal signals
- Learn self-rescue techniques
- Learn the rules of the road and area you’re in
- Be aware of others around you
- Especially fishermen
- Cross a motorized craft in an astern fashion
- Cross as a group
- Stay between shore and the light/buoy
- Know your security zones & surrounding resources
- Know restricted areas
- Never float or paddle over obstructions
- Be aware of others around you
- Bring the proper equipment
- Lifejacket
- Flares
- Snacks/water
- Whistle
- sunscreen
- Compass/maps/chart
- Bilge pump
- Spare paddle/paddle floaters
- Rescue gear/first aid kit
- “river” knife
- Head lamp or white light for nighttime for oncoming traffic
- Matches
- Boat sponge
- Tow lines
- Radios/VHF (monitor channels 13&16) (16 is the distress channel)
- Learn what buoy markers mean
- Green light – starboard (right)
- Red light – port (left)
- Wear the right clothing
- Bright colored apparel
- Bring extra clothes in a dry bag
- Always choose an appropriate paddle location for your skill level
- Prep your crew/boat
- Reflective tape on paddles
- Visibility kits
- Have an identification sticker on your kayak with your name and emergency contacts
- Have a pre-trip plan
- Inform others of plan
- Do not change plan
- Always assess the behavior of others in your party
- Never go alone
- Where are you going? How long should you be gone? How many people in your party?
- Do not overload your boat
- Never exceed the weight capacity
- Be a competent swimmer
- Watch the weather
- Never go kayaking in the fog
- Beware of offshore winds that could deter you from getting back
- Never go under the influence!
- Always double check your equipment before going out
Some people wouldn’t believe that Lake Huron is the perfect spot to kayak, but it is! Not only is kayaking a fun activity for a group of friends or family members, but it is a great work out for your arms and legs with a Hobie. Hobie kayaks have not only the paddles/oars, but also include a drive to peddle with your feet! This makes for a great fishing trip! If you are interested in purchasing a Hobie kayak, please email kassii@portsanilacmarina.com for demo dates and inquires.
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Kasaundra M Watta, 22 of Port Sanilac, has lived near the water her entire life. She graduated from Croswell-Lexington High School is 2014 and received her Associates Degree in General Education from Saint Clair County Community College in 2015. Even after moving to Mount Pleasant in 2015 to attend Central Michigan University, her heart remained near the lake. She returned in December with her Bachelor’s Degree and is now the Port Sanilac Marina’s Content and Marketing Manager. She has become involved in anything that has to do with the water: learning about boats and kayaks because of her everlasting love of the lake. She now gets to watch the waves roll in from her desk.
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Disclaimer: Blue Water Healthy Living is an online magazine located in Port Huron, Michigan. Our purpose is to promote healthy living by showcasing the Blue Water Area, its people, issues and surroundings. This online magazine is devoted to providing healthy living related stories, local happenings, and commentary. Often inspiring and uplifting, our stories come from our heart and soul to promote the enjoyment of a more fulfilling Blue Water Area lifestyle. The material on this web site is provided for informational and amusement purposes only and is not to be confused with any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions and values of Blue Water Healthy Living.
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