It is the season to get out and enjoy the sea. We have one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, and much of it is suitable for paddling various types of craft. There are sections of our coast that are beautiful, but also extremely dangerous. So please always take care that if something goes wrong you will be prepared. Think about what can go wrong and have a plan to get yourself out of trouble.If you intend to buy a new craft think about what colours will be most visible to searchers. For example Camo or white are very hard for rescuers to spot in bad weather.Here are some pointers from Kazkazi kayaks :1. Check all equipment for leaks and wear.2. Know your own capabilities and that of your equipment. Always maintain a healthy respect for the ocean.3.Know the prevailing and predicted weather conditions.4.Know the coastline that you intend to paddle,area conditions and hazards. Check with locals and local paddlers.5.Always wear a P.F.D. or Lifejacket.6.Always carry safety equipment i.e. flares, paddle leash, whistle, mirror or cd for signaling and cellphone in waterproof case.7.Do not go paddling alone.8.Never over exert yourself on a paddle.9.Always notify somebody of your planned route and expected time of return.10.Wear bright and visible reflective clothing.
A trip down memory lane (Wilderness)
Read MoreA 48-year-old man from Belgium is expected to be discharged from hospital today after a non-fatal drowning incident at a remote beach between Brenton-on-Sea and Buffalo Bay on Monday afternoon. The man, on a cycling holiday with his family, is ...
On Saturday morning, NSRI Port Nolloth volunteers on a routine training exercise responded when a local mining vessel raised concern for three of her crew who had gone ashore on their RHIB (rigid hull inflatable boat) and not been heard ...
NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew were activated following a request for medical assistance from a group of hikers reporting a female in their group suffering an injury and unable to continue on the walk. ...