But for the vigilance recently of a seaside resident near Frogggy Pond, Simon’s town, and the fast response of the local NSRI, things may not have turned out the way they did for two surfski paddlers caught in a gale force offshore wind late afternoon in False Bay. One paddler had capsized and could not remount his craft in the rough conditions and high wind and both were hypothermic by the time they were plucked from the water. It was a close call and one can only be grateful at the outcome. The incident should serve as a warning to all who go to sea on small craft, in particular kayaks and surfskis. Those who are contemplating it would do well to find a copy of Johan Loots’ "A Practical Guide to Sea Kayaking in Southern Africa" (or the international version, “An Essential Guide to Sea Kayaking”) to get the basic safety rules. Loots’ take is that paddling at sea is as dangerous as flying and that your first mistake could be your last. After sheer ignorance and a lack of awareness he lists offshore winds as the main danger facing paddlers, pointing out that such winds can arise in seconds and that what was intended to be a relaxed sunset paddle can turn into a nightmare in minutes. There are three aspects of concern in respect of safe paddling: 1.The Craft: is it suited to the conditions, is it sea-worthy, is it sound? 2. Support or Shore crew : has someone been informed of your paddle plan and do they know what to do when support is needed? and 3. The Paddlers: are they informed, trained, capable and fit? Can they judge, and grade the conditions and their own ability? Can they remount their craft in rough conditions after a capsize? Are they wearing life-jackets and do they have safety equipment available, including waterproofed cellphones? Are they paddling with others? Paddlers taking to the sea would do well to heed these precautions, including for organized events. The fact that some can manage some dangerous routes does not mean that it’s safe for all. Safety remains each and every paddler’s own responsibility. There are various training options available to paddlers and kayak guides, such as offered by CSA and TASKS, in Plettenberg Bay. For more information about TASKS, PaddleYak Kayaks and Real Cape Kayak Adventures and Caminos, Wapp +27(0)825562520, email info or see www.paddleayk.co.za .