Safety Advice Solicited
Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2017 10:31 am
With all the GW Sightings and increased numbers visiting the Cape I thought it would be good to seek some expert advice.
Below is an email I sent to Dr. Greg Skomal requesting any tips, advice and or information on the subject of Kayak Safety with GWs.
I'm really hoping we get a response from him, we probably couldn't get better tips than those from someone in his field.
FYI
From: Jordan Jacobs
Date: Jun 30, 2017 9:18 AM
Subject: Safety Advice
To: gregory.skomal@state.ma.us
Cc:
Greetings Dr. Skomal,
I’m a sea kayaker and instructor for the paddling group that I am affiliated with. http://www.wtpaddlers.org
With the increase in White Shark numbers around the Massachusetts Coast, it has created both a heightened awareness and some fear during sea kayak outings.
Do you have, or could you refer me to a resource that would be able to provide some advice about maintaining safety in the water while kayaking?
We are aware that no one should be co-mingling with prey, and or being in close proximity to fishing and or seals while paddling.
Are there any preventative steps or preparations that can be done to increase the distinction of a boat hull from prey. Is there coatings and or markings that would provide both a visual or sensual distinction / deterrent for a shark to take an up close interest in a kayak?
Our sea kayaks are typically 15-18’ in length, so visually we are presenting a much longer picture than a gray seal.
Tactically, do you have any advice regarding what to do if you are up close to a shark that has decided to check you out? As time goes on, it would seem inevitable that it will be a when, rather than in if, we will be in this situation.
Along with basic safety training for our group of paddlers, it would be great if we can pass along proper information about shark – kayaking interaction safety guidelines to those that wish to sea kayak, rather than letting irrational fear guide them.
Personally I’ve always been fascinated with GW’s as they truly are a marvel of Evolution and longevity. However, I really don’t wish to interact with them up close while paddling if I can possibly help it.
Any help / information would be greatly appreciated.
Best wishes and continued success with your research efforts!
Sincerely,
Jordan Jacobs
Below is an email I sent to Dr. Greg Skomal requesting any tips, advice and or information on the subject of Kayak Safety with GWs.
I'm really hoping we get a response from him, we probably couldn't get better tips than those from someone in his field.
FYI
From: Jordan Jacobs
Date: Jun 30, 2017 9:18 AM
Subject: Safety Advice
To: gregory.skomal@state.ma.us
Cc:
Greetings Dr. Skomal,
I’m a sea kayaker and instructor for the paddling group that I am affiliated with. http://www.wtpaddlers.org
With the increase in White Shark numbers around the Massachusetts Coast, it has created both a heightened awareness and some fear during sea kayak outings.
Do you have, or could you refer me to a resource that would be able to provide some advice about maintaining safety in the water while kayaking?
We are aware that no one should be co-mingling with prey, and or being in close proximity to fishing and or seals while paddling.
Are there any preventative steps or preparations that can be done to increase the distinction of a boat hull from prey. Is there coatings and or markings that would provide both a visual or sensual distinction / deterrent for a shark to take an up close interest in a kayak?
Our sea kayaks are typically 15-18’ in length, so visually we are presenting a much longer picture than a gray seal.
Tactically, do you have any advice regarding what to do if you are up close to a shark that has decided to check you out? As time goes on, it would seem inevitable that it will be a when, rather than in if, we will be in this situation.
Along with basic safety training for our group of paddlers, it would be great if we can pass along proper information about shark – kayaking interaction safety guidelines to those that wish to sea kayak, rather than letting irrational fear guide them.
Personally I’ve always been fascinated with GW’s as they truly are a marvel of Evolution and longevity. However, I really don’t wish to interact with them up close while paddling if I can possibly help it.
Any help / information would be greatly appreciated.
Best wishes and continued success with your research efforts!
Sincerely,
Jordan Jacobs