Rescuing My Kayaking Partner on Savage River Using Hi-N-Dry Rolling Aid

 





























 
   Updated Nov. 11, 2012
  
 
In this video, my dad capsizes just before a violent class 3+ rapid and unfortunately, his back brace to his kayak seat slides under his butt, which makes him virtually "out of his seat" and unable to roll up. Normally, if one can't roll up and they are in a class 3 rapid, it is time to swim - but with the Hi-N-Dry, my dad is able to hang in there sideways while still able to breath and wait for assistance. Note how he is able to look for me to help him and even has a free hand to grab for a partner's boat or a throw rope - all while being able to breath and look around. This video does an excellent job of illustrating the safety advantage of using a Hi-N-Dry and how it gives kayaking partners time to come rescue a struggling partner in need of help, often preventing the need for a wet exit, which can put the swimmer in great risk of injury due to the violence of the water and the rocks under the water. Were he to swim on this river, injury would be nearly inevitable due to the constant barrage of class 3 rapids with little to no eddies or pools to recover lost gear. Some experienced paddlers who have swam on the Savage have scary stories to tell often including injuries and abandoning of the trip. The Hi-N-Dry is a welcome aid and makes river rescues so much easier and safer.

Another element to note is that for the duration of his capsize, the Hi-N-Dry float keeps his torso out of the water, not only enabling him to breath, but preventing the rocks that are swiftly going by underneath the water from battering his body and causing injury. Were he to be tucked forward attempting one roll attempt after the next as is traditionally taught in kayaking, there would be a high likelihood that he would have been smacking the top of his helmet on rocks and risking spinal injuries or concussion. The Hi-N-Dry offers him safety by keeping his body at the surface of the water and out of the rocks.

 Updated Nov. 11, 2012