Kayaking can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it is important to remember that there are risks involved. Every year, a number of kayakers die in accidents.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how many kayak deaths per year, and what you can do to stay safe while kayaking. Keep reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
What are the Causes of Kayak Deaths?
The leading causes of kayaking deaths are drowning, marine accidents, and traumatic injuries.
Drowing:
Drowning occurs when a kayaker’s breathing passages are blocked by water or the kayaker’s body enters the water and does not resurface. When we breathe in, we take in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide; this process is disrupted if our breathing passages are filled with water, and we cannot extract oxygen from the water that fills our lungs.
Marine Accidents:
These occur when a kayaker has a simple accident while on water, such as falling from the kayak or being ejected from the kayak by a wave. These kinds of accidents can result in trauma injuries, which we will cover next.
Traumatic Injuries:
These are injuries that result from a kayaker colliding with the marine environment- such as rocks, trees, or other boats.
Exposure:
This occurs when a kayaker’s body is exposed to abnormally cold air and water temperatures and can lead to hypothermia and death if left untreated.
Natural Catastrophes:
These occur when kayakers are caught up in floods, extreme weather conditions, etc.
How Many Kayak Deaths Per Year?
According to the United States Coast Guard, at least 97 kayakers died on United States waterways in 2011. This number is down from 148 deaths in 2010.
The following are statistics regarding kayak death incidents all over the world:
- In Canada, at least 11 people die each year as a result of their participation in various water sports.
- In the UK, there are approximately 12 kayak deaths per year.
- In Australia, at least 5 people die each year as a result of their participation in various water activities.
- In Portugal, at least 15 people die each year as a result of their participation in various water activities.
- In Sweden, at least 5 people die each year as a result of their participation in various water activities.
- In Finland, there were 18 kayak deaths between 1995 and 2011. Statistics show that the number of fatalities has gradually increased over the years.
- At least 7 drownings occurred in Great Britain between 2005 and 2011.
- In New Zealand, at least 3 people die each year as a result of their participation in various water activities.
- In Norway, there were 10 kayak deaths between 1995 and 2010. Statistics show that the number of fatalities has gradually increased over the years.
How to Stay Safe While Kayaking:
There are several steps you can take to ensure your own safety while kayaking:
- Always go kayaking with a friend.
- Make sure you always wear your life jacket while kayaking, even if the weather seems calm.
- Do not try to stand up in your kayak unless it is completely secure and stationary.
- Always check that there are no other boats or swimmers in the area before you begin.
- Do not go kayaking alone at night.
- Only eat and drink water if you are sure it is clean and fresh, to avoid getting sick.
- If you feel faint or dizzy while kayaking, get out of the water.
- Never kayak alone if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or while using other equipment that may affect your judgment.
Conclusion:
Now you are fully aware of how many kayak deaths per year, as well as how to stay safe while kayaking. Remember to use common sense and follow the safety guidelines when out on the water!
FAQs
What kind of risks go along with kayaking?
Kayaking comes with many risks, including drowning, marine accidents, traumatic injuries, hypothermia/exposure, and natural catastrophes.
How many people die canoeing or skiing?
Around 150 people die canoeing or skiing each year in Canada, and at least 500 drown while swimming.
Is kayaking a dangerous sport?
While it depends on the kind of insurance you have and what your skill level is, kayaking can be much more dangerous than other water sports like swimming or canoeing.
What is considered a marine accident?
A marine accident is any type of accident that occurs on the water. This can involve collisions with boats, unexpected waves and currents, and contact with the marine environment.