The president of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators has some harsh words for kayakers out on the waterways: between hypothermia and drowning, kayakers are a ‘huge drain’ and should really be required to take boating safety classes.

The fact that it’s so easy to buy an inexpensive kayak from Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, etc., and then transport it via conventional car, has really helped the sport to take off across the country.

Unfortunately, many people have no previous knowledge of water safety beyond visits to the beach. Once you leave the safety of the water’s edge, a life preserver at a minimum is an absolute necessity for proper safety, and it never hurts to make sure you’re not alone in case something does happen and you need assistance.

“It really shouldn’t be specific to kayaking though, since there are plenty of boat owners out there now that haven’t taken any boating safety classes.”

Captain Chris Crolley, President of Coastal Expeditions maintains that “anybody without a type-3 PFD is acting totally irresponsible, tour guides know better, and should never allow kayakers to go without one.” He also pointed out that professional guides carry first aid kits, and are members of the American Canoe Association.

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