How do I use self rescue straps during a rescue?

How do I use self rescue straps during a rescue?

We show you here how to do a self rescue efficiently and safely using our deck mounted self rescue straps. The safety straps are standard on most touring and sea kayak models of Riot Kayaks and Boreal Design.



  1. Stay with your boat and hold on to your paddle
  2. Pull of your paddle float and secure on to the end of one blade (inflate float if required)
  3. Slide other free blade through your safety straps OR undo straps place paddle shaft across back deck and do up straps again securely tighten them. 
  4. Using an arm or leg or both, but weight on the paddle shaft to assist in sliding up and back on top kayak. 
  5. Carefully putting weight towards paddle float side, reseat yourself in the kayak. 
  6. This is your chance to pump out the kayak of water, reset your fit, gear and put your skirt back on while leaning your kayak towards paddle float side.
  7. Only once you, boat and gear are ready to paddle again, will you release the safety straps by pulling up on the tabs on top of each buckle.  This will free the paddle so you can pull off the paddle float, stow it quickly and start paddling again.  
Have fun, be safe and see you on the water!