Capsizing can happen, even in calm water with expert kayakers. So, knowing what a kayak t-rescue is and how to perform it is vitally important.
What is a Kayak T-Rescue?
A kayak “t-rescue” (aka a buddy rescue) is a partner-assisted technique kayakers use to get an overturned paddler back into their boat, safely and efficiently. We all know that kayaking with a buddy can be more fun, but it can also be safer. Having an assist after a capsize is beneficial.
Knowing how to perform a kayak t-rescue can make a wet rescue much easier. If a paddler has completely flipped and is in the water, they can rely on a partner to steady and reset the kayak.
The T-rescue gets its name from the way the kayaks form a T as the rescuer’s boat approaches the capsized craft. The bow of the overturned kayak should meet the side of the rescuer’s kayak.
Step-By-Step Kayak T-Rescue Overview
The Approach
- The capsized kayaker should signal for help. This can be done by banging the paddle on the kayak or calling out if the buddy is close. (Wet paddlers should make sure to recover the paddle before beginning the rescue.)
- The rescue paddler approaches the capsized kayak carefully. Form a “T” with the flipped craft by lining up the bow with the cockpit of the rescuer.
The Flip
- Working together, the paddlers should slide the capsized kayak onto the deck of the rescue craft. This can be done by the rescuer grabbing the bow and lifting the boat up and over as the swimming paddler pushes down on the stern of the flipped ‘yak.
- The rescue paddler should flip the kayak back to its upright position. This step will hopefully empty water from the kayak and prevent more from entering, as the cockpit should be elevated by the height of the rescue boat. If you are in a sit-on-top kayak, there is less need to empty water and maybe even less likelihood of the kayak flipping completely.
The Realign
- Once the kayak is returned to its upright position, the paddlers should line up the two kayaks side-by-side.
- The boats should be aligned with the bow of one kayak next to the stern of the other kayak.
The Re-Entry
- The rescue paddler should secure both paddles to the rescue kayak to prevent them from floating away.
- The rescuer should get a good, strong hold of the empty kayak, making sure to stay low and stable in the boat.
- The swimmer should approach from the rear deck and pull himself back into the craft using the scramble or heel-hook technique. Once he is on board, slide legs into the cockpit and rotate to a seated position.
The Result
- Once the wet paddler is situated, they should pump out any extra water and reattach the spray skirt, if necessary.
- Now you are ready to resume your adventure.
Key Points & Equipment for a Kayak T-Rescue
Bulkheads
Bulkheads are a structural wall or partition that is sealed and provides buoyancy for your kayak. Having bulkheads, especially a rear one, is helpful in a t-rescue as it limits the amount of water that can enter the craft.
Decklines
Lines secured to your deck make the t-rescue easier as they provide something for the rescuer to hold on to to stabilize the kayak.
Practice
Like all kayak rescue techniques, it is very important to attempt this in calm conditions before you find yourself needing it in an emergency. Emergencies often crop up during less-than-ideal conditions like wind, rough water, and unexpected events.
When to Use the Kayak T-Rescue
- The kayak t-rescue needs to have another paddler around to bring the assist. If you aren’t with a group, there might be another paddler around to help, but you can’t depend on it. If you paddle solo, it is wise to practice self-rescue techniques as well.
- T-rescue is mainly used with sit-in kayaks. Most sit-on-top kayaks don’t capsize. They also don’t take on water like a sit-in, so the t-alignment and flip steps aren’t as important with a sit-on-top rescue. If the paddler is in the water and needs to re-enter a sit-on-top, they may benefit from the stabilization from another paddler, but they probably don’t need all the steps of a t-rescue.
The kayak t-rescue can be an excellent option for paddler-assisted rescue. Whether you use all the steps or modify them for your situation, it is a great kayak rescue technique to practice and keep in your arsenal for when things on the water don’t go as expected. Happy Paddling!