Auxiliary safety class perpares kayakers for winter waters

As temperatures cool in the Lake Tahoe Basin and weather conditions become more unpredictable, local kayakers must pay special attention to preparation and conditions.

The number of people turning to manual powered craft or paddle craft is increasing, as is the risk for novice or unprepared operators getting themselves into trouble. A study by the Outdoor Industry Foundation has shown a 23 percent increase in the number of Americans participating in kayaking.

Unfortunately, there has also been a rise in the number of paddle craft accidents. According to the statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety, in 2007 the number of fatalities associated with the use of canoes/kayaks increased to 107 in 2007 as compared with 99 in 2006.

To combat kayaking inexperience and tragic consequences, North Lake Tahoe’s Flotilla of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is offering a Winter Kayaking Safety Class. This class is offered in collaboration with ENVIRONMENTS of Kings Beach on Saturday, Sept. 13.

It will be held at 8 a.m. at the U.S. Coast Guard Station in Tahoe City and last four hours. The cost is $30. Important topics such as proper kayak clothing, required and recommended equipment, the proper fit of personal flotation devices, Lake Tahoe hazards, group kayaking and trip preparations will be covered in detail.

In addition, self-rescue techniques will be demonstrated. It is the hope of the Coast Guard Auxiliary that if kayakers enter the water better prepared during the cold weather season, casualties will be kept to a minimum.