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It is getting hot outside, and most of us are looking for fun and safe ways to cool off. Lakes, rivers and coastal waters offer refreshing relief from the summer heat, but as more people flock to these recreational areas, it’s crucial to remember that water safety and self-defense should never take a backseat to fun.
The tragic murder of Sunshine Stewart while paddleboarding in Maine serves as a stark reminder that water safety now extends beyond wearing life jackets and monitoring weather conditions. In light of recent incidents and ongoing investigations like the New England serial killer case, authorities are urging the public to exercise caution while out in remote areas. Today, outdoor enthusiasts must think about personal safety, situational awareness and even self-defense training as essential components of their time on the water.
As you paddle through secluded coves or cast your line in remote fishing spots, remember this: isolation that brings peace can also bring vulnerability. Criminals increasingly target outdoor enthusiasts in these unguarded moments, turning tranquil waterways into potential danger zones. This article covers essential water safety gear, concealed carry considerations, and self-defense strategies for kayaking, paddleboarding and boating, including training tips and the unique challenges of defending yourself in aquatic environments — all focused on how to stay safe on lakes and rivers.
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Essential water safety gear: Paddleboarding, kayak and boating safety basics
Most paddlers know the fundamentals: wear a life jacket, check the weather and tell someone your plans. But in today’s environment, you’ll need to prepare a little more with the best water safety gear for kayaking and paddleboarding.
1. High-visibility equipment
Blending in might help capture wildlife or suit tactical missions, but when it comes to water safety and deterring threats, standing out is far more effective.
- Brightly colored kayaks or paddleboards like BOTE’s HD Aero are a great option. BOTE is known for its extra sturdy measures and high-quality build material.
- For low-light conditions, add waterproof high-visibility adhesive tape or LED strobe lights.
Light is a proven deterrent, so integrating reflective elements not only boosts paddleboarding and kayak safety but also signals to potential threats that you’re prepared and not an easy target — especially when paired with the best water safety gear for kayaking and paddleboarding.
2. Emergency communication devices
Cell service is often unreliable on open water. In this article, I highlighted some of my favorite communication devices for camping, but aquatic fun requires a little more planning. When you’re on the water, it’s crucial to choose marine-specific emergency communication devices designed for wet environments.
- Waterproof Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) like the ACF ResQLink 400 use satellites to alert rescuers.
- Waterproof VHF radios, like the Cobra MR HH3550, maintain communication and provide National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alerts.
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3. Situational awareness in remote areas
Criminals often exploit isolation. Stay alert by avoiding predictable routines. Change your launch points and return times. Before setting up a launch or base camp, scan the area for anything out of place. Pay attention to individuals lingering near access points and alert your group to suspicious activities.
Above all, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. As first responders, you already possess the observational skills and tactical awareness to spot trouble early, so bring those instincts and training to bear — even when you’re out on the water for fun.
Concealed carry on the water: Challenges and solutions
Carrying on the water presents unique challenges. For those legally permitted, concealed carry while boating, kayaking or paddleboarding can provide an added layer of security, but the marine environment demands preparation.
1. Best dry bags for firearms
Water can quickly damage your firearm and open carry can draw unwanted attention. Invest in a submersible dry bag, backpack, sling or fanny pack for concealed carry on the water.
- BOTE’s Highwater Slingpack Verge is my go-to. It is slim enough to strap on a board or raft, and very easy and comfortable to carry as a shoulder sling.
- If you are looking for a chest rig, I love the WestSlope Aqua-X Dry Pack. It fits nicely over a life jacket and it puts your tools right where you need them.
2. Legal considerations
Concealed carry laws on lakes and rivers vary by state. Even law enforcement officers should verify local boating-specific laws or consult a firearms attorney before carrying.
3. Alternatives if carrying isn’t an option
Not everyone can or wants to carry a firearm, but there are several non-lethal self-defense tools for waterways. Consider:
- Marine-grade pepper spray with a lanyard to prevent drops. I purchased the SABRE Pepper Spray with Quick Release for all my life jackets and backpacks. For more stopping power, the SABRE Frontiersman MAX Bear Spray is fantastic.
- Dive knives are legal in most states and useful for emergencies. You don’t need an expensive knife like the MOD Mark 3 Dive Knife. A simple, cheap knife that doesn’t slip when wet is what you should look for.
Self-defense training tips for water-based scenarios
Defending yourself in or near water is vastly different from land-based confrontations. Self-defense training for kayaking and paddleboarding should factor in balance, mobility and environmental challenges. Each time you are out on the water, practice some of the instructor-recommended training drills below:
1. Challenges of defending yourself in or near water
- Reduced stability: Standing on a paddleboard or sitting in a kayak limits movement. Look for paddleboards and rafts with center and side fins. A displacement hull is a good choice for those looking for better maneuvering.
- Buoyancy issues: Water resistance slows strikes and makes grappling difficult. But the last place you want to end up is in the water. Do what it takes to stay afloat.
- Limited footing: Slippery surfaces increase fall risks. Features like BOTE’s BVA multi-textured deck pad are what you should look for. If you already have a paddleboard, you may want to invest in an aftermarket traction mat pad for extra grip.
- Cold water shock: Sudden immersion can impair motor skills and breathing, but you can practice by taking cold showers or ice baths.
2. Instructor-recommended training drills
- Wet environment practice: Train in a pool or shallow water to simulate real conditions before going out on the lake or river.
- Weapon retention drills: Weapon retention drills on the water are essential. Practice drawing from a dry bag, chest rig or backpack while seated in a kayak or floating on a paddleboard.
- Escape techniques: Learn how to break free from an attacker while wearing a life jacket. I went through a water combat training course years ago and fighting in the water is nothing like fighting on the ground. Practice now so you do not become overwhelmed.
3. Paddleboard and kayak-specific scenarios
- Using your paddle as a weapon: A strong thrust toward an opponent’s head or ribs can deter an attacker and provide quick self-defense on the water.
- Board or kayak as a barrier: Position your board or kayak between you and a threat. Then practice drawing your firearm or pepper spray from this position.
- Emergency dismounts: Practice quickly exiting your kayak or paddleboard if needed.
Final thoughts: Balance fun and safety
The growing risks on waterways demand a proactive mindset. By combining traditional water safety practices with modern self-defense strategies, outdoor enthusiasts can reduce vulnerabilities and better understand how to stay safe on lakes and rivers while still enjoying their time on the water.
Upgrade your gear for visibility, choose reliable emergency devices, and understand the laws before carrying firearms or other self-defense tools. Train for the unique challenges of aquatic environments — balance, mobility and cold water all change the dynamics. And most importantly: stay alert, trust your instincts and avoid isolation when possible.
Your off-duty time on lakes, rivers or coastal waters should be relaxing and refreshing. With a little preparation, you can protect yourself, enjoy the outdoors with confidence and make the most of summer adventures.
NEXT: If you find yourself out on the water during a flooding event, preparation can mean the difference between safety and disaster. Here are THREE essential tips every officer should know to stay safe during flood emergencies.
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