Kayak Rescue Techniques

It is always recommended to kayak in groups, because a number of kayak rescue techniques not only save lives, but time as well. When a kayak capsizes, it fills with water, and before the swimmer may re-enter the kayak, it must be emptied of as much water as possible. The HI-rescue, T-rescue and towing are all rescue techniques for kayaking. Choosing between them depends upon the number of rescuers available as well as the nature of the incident.

  1. HI-Rescue

    • The HI-rescue technique involves two rescuers. It is ideal because it allows you to empty all of the water from a capsized kayak. First, both rescuers kayak up, facing forward on either side of the capsized kayak. Meanwhile, the swimmer must grab hold of a rescuing kayak to avoid separation. Next, both rescuers must lay their paddles across their kayaks so they form a bridge in an H-like formation. Lifting the capsized kayak out of the water, the rescuers must place the kayak face down upon the paddles and rock it back and forth until all of the water is out. After carefully flipping it over and placing the kayak back in the water, the swimmer may now re-enter his kayak.

    T-Rescue

    • The T-rescue is performed by the swimmer of the capsized kayak and one other kayaker. While it only requires one rescuer, it may be difficult to empty all of the water from the capsized kayak. The rescuing kayaker must coast up to the front of the capsized kayak and pull the bow (front) out of the water and onto his lap. During the entire process, the swimmer must maintain his grip on the stern (back) of the kayak. The two now turn the kayak over and rock it back and forth to release as much water as possible. Next, the rescuer must flip the kayak right-side-up, moving it parallel to his. In order to keep the kayak in position as the swimmer re-enters, the rescuer must grip the righted kayak and shift his body weight against it, so the two kayaks are firmly connected.

    Towing Techniques

    • Towing techniques may involve one to all of the other kayakers in a group, and are used to bring one or more rescued kayaks to shore. This is usually a last resort, since it takes more time and more effort on the part of the rescuers; however, it may be the only option in the case of an emergency, and it is a good option for beginner kayakers who have difficulty re-entering in the water. A tow-line may be established either to the bow or stern of the kayak. A rescuer may perform a tow by himself; however, this may prove too tiring.
      To perform the V-technique, attach both ends of the towing cable to the sterns of two rescuing kayaks. Attach the kayak being rescued to the middle of the cable and tow it behind in a V formation. To perform an inline tow, attach the cable to each kayak in a straight column. Use this technique to help one or a number of kayaks, with the least capable more toward the back, so he will receive the most assistance.