Shake-out
A self-rescue technique
BY ANDREW WESTWOOD PHOTOS BY PAUL VILLECOURT
If you capsize you may need to use a self-rescue technique called the shake-out. Effective with solo or tandem canoes, the shake-out is best performed by just one paddler be- cause co-ordinating the movement with a partner is difficult. After the canoe has capsized, turn the canoe over so that it is in the upright posi- tion. Grip the canoe at one end and push it forcefully downward and for- ward. This sloshes the water out of the canoe. After repeated thrusts the water is progressively emptied from the boat. This method of draining the canoe may not be as effective as the Capistrano Flip; however, it is some- what easier to perform. Even if the canoe is only partially emptied, it can be re-entered and bailed, or simply paddled to shore and emptied. An alternative to doing the shake-
out from one end of the boat is to complete a similar self-rescue from the side of the canoe at mid-ship (see photo sequence). Hold the gun- wale near to the center thwart and push down and away from yourself. Thrust downward repeatedly until you’re satisfied that you have shaken as much water out of the canoe as possible. Once again climb in and bail the remaining water, or paddle to shore to finish the job there. /OO
This is an excerpt from
The Heliconia Press’ new release Canoeing – The
Essential Skills and Safety (soft cover, 144pgs)
available for $14.95 US at 888.582.2001 or
www.helipress.com
www.ottawaoutdoors.ca
ottawaoutdoors 11
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