Seeing and being seen critical to paddle craft safety

MOSES LAKE — It’s the right time of year to take out the boat, whether it’s to the lake or the river. But no boat usually is out there alone, and some of the other watercraft out there don’t have a motor.

Both boaters and kayakers, paddle boarders and canoers have to look out for each other – literally and figuratively – to ensure everybody has an enjoyable day on the water.

The Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission has advice for boaters and people doing what are called paddle sports.

The first rule is to see and be seen. Boaters have to keep a sharp eye out. Non-motorized vessels, as they are called, usually sit low in the water, making them harder to see. It’s especially important to pay attention when a motorized boat’s bow is raised due to acceleration. Paddle boats also are hard to see at twilight and when it’s foggy.

Paddlers should do what they can to be seen. That means bright clothing and hats – this is a great time for that yellow shirt that hurts the eyeballs – and paddlers should consider wearing a life jacket that contrasts with the shirt.

Paddlers should consider using paddles with reflective material on the paddle blade. Paddles are usually in motion, which usually catches attention, and reflective material makes them even more visible.

A paddle boat or board also benefits from a fluorescent yellow or orange flag. Fishermen using a kayak should consider always using a flag when they are stationary. In fact, reflective material and bright colors on the whole kayak, canoe or paddle board is recommended. The boat should be a color that contrasts with the surroundings.

Lights are required at night, both for boats and paddle craft, and life jackets are, of course, required for all parties.

For paddle craft, there’s also safety in numbers. Paddle boaters are advised to be out on the water with at least three people.

Boat wakes can be a problem for paddle craft and can capsize them if the wake is big enough. So boaters should leave plenty of room between the boat and the paddler. If a motorized boat has to pass in close proximity, it should slow down. Paddle craft also move slower and have a harder time getting out of the way, which is another reason for boaters to slow down when they’re in close proximity.

Additionally, paddle boaters should stay close to shore when there’s a lot of boat traffic. Paddle boaters are advised to approach waves head-on, which reduces the chance of water getting in the boat.