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Work through all five checks before every launch. Tap each item to mark it complete. Print the completed checklist and leave it with your float plan contact.
⚠️ Before you leave home
Always tell someone onshore where you are launching, your planned route, and your expected return time. If you are not back by that time they should call 000. This is the single most effective safety measure available to a paddler.
1
Weather & Conditions
- Check BOM forecast Wind speed, direction, and any warnings for your launch area.
- Check tides (tidal waterways) Know your high and low tide times. Plan to avoid dangerous tidal flows.
- Check swell & sea state Coastal and exposed trails only. Do not launch in conditions beyond your skill level.
- Have a plan B Identify a sheltered bail-out point or alternative launch if conditions deteriorate.
2
Personal Safety Equipment
- Lifejacket (PFD) fitted & done up Correct level for your waterway. Worn at all times on the water.
- Whistle attached to PFD Required by law in SA on open waters.
- Sun protection SPF 50+ sunscreen, hat, and UV-rated clothing or rash vest.
- Water & food Minimum 2 L per person. More for hot weather or full-day paddles.
3
Communication & Navigation
- Phone charged & waterproofed Dry bag or waterproof case. Note that mobile coverage is absent on many trails.
- Trail map downloaded offline Avenza PDF map downloaded before departure — works without mobile signal.
- VHF radio (coastal / port trails) Port River, North Arm, and coastal trails. Monitor Ch 16. Working channel Ch 67.
- Float plan left with contact Launch point, route, expected return time, and a description of your vessel.
4
Vessel & Gear
- Vessel inspected No damage, hatches closed, no water in hull, paddle leash attached.
- Paddle float & bilge pump Sea kayaks and exposed water. Know how to use them before you need them.
- Tow line & throw bag Group paddling, moving water, or tidal trails.
- First aid kit Waterproofed and accessible. Includes antihistamine, blister treatment, and bandages.
5
Group & Self-Assessment
- Everyone is fit to paddle No illness, fatigue, alcohol, or medication that impairs judgement.
- Skills match the conditions If today's wind or tide is beyond your group's ability, do not launch.
- Everyone knows the plan Launch point, route, turnaround time, and what to do if separated.
- Marine mammal rules understood 50 m from dolphins, 100 m from whales. Greater distances if calves are present.
Which lifejacket do you need?
- Level — Water type — SA requirement — Notes
- Level 100 — Unprotected waters More than 2 nm offshore — Required — Self-righting. Recommended for offshore and coastal paddling.
- Level 50 — Semi-protected waters Up to 2 nm from the coast — Required — Suitable for most SA coastal and tidal trails including Port River.
- Level 50S — Protected waters Inland lakes & reservoirs — Required — Suitable for reservoir trails: Myponga, Warren, West Lakes.
SA lifejacket laws effective 1 July 2021. All paddlers must wear a lifejacket appropriate to the water type. For full details visit Marine Safety SA →
