Water safety

The 120 rule + kayak/SUP checklist

Conditions & checklist

Air temp, °C

Water temp, °C

PFD — one per person, fastenedSelf-rescue: capsize exit practicedWeather/wind checked (offshore wind is the main risk)Route plan left ashore + return timePhone/radio in a waterproof casePaddle/SUP leash; skirt on kayakDry bag: warm clothes, water, snackWhistle/signalling

The 120 rule: if air°F + water°F < 120 — a wetsuit is needed. Cold water doesn't kill instantly: cold shock in the first 60 seconds (involuntary gasp reflex), then loss of muscle control in ~10 min, hypothermia in ~30. Stay with the craft — it sinks less often than a swimmer tires.

Assessment

120 rule: 141°F ✓
Cold water (<15°C): No
Checklist: 0/8