THE circumstances surrounding the tragic death of a young kayaker on a Kerry river late last year are highlighted in the annual report of the Marine Casualty Investigation Board, which has just been published.
The incident occurred on 2 November 2019 when a party of 27 kayakers set out on a down river run of the Upper Caragh River in Glencar. The group, from a university kayaking club, consisted of experienced kayakers and beginners.
The first group of nine people successfully navigated the river without major incident and the other two groups were following the same procedures.
The report into the fatality states that, towards the end of the run, a number of kayakers encountered overhanging trees and two of them capsized.
One person lost their paddle and was trapped upside down in their kayak but was recovered by other members of the group, brought ashore and resuscitated. He later recovered in hospital.
Simultaneous with this incident, another kayaker exited their vessel and became trapped against an overhanging branch by the current. Members of the group attempted to free the trapped female who was conscious. After about 20 minutes, however, the casualty fell unconscious due to the cold.
She was freed and brought ashore but no vital signs were detected and resuscitation was attempted.
Emergency services, including an ambulance crew, the air ambulance, Iveragh Coast Guard, the fire service and gardai rushed to the scene when the alarm was raised.
The woman – who was aged 20 – was transferred by air ambulance to University Hospital Kerry where she passed away.
During 2019, the Marine Casualty Investigation Board commenced full investigations into 10 marine casualties which was double the number in 2018. Last year a total of six people lost their lives in the marine casualties under investigation.
In its report, the Marine Casualty Investigation Board said the occurrence of two incidents involving kayaking in a single year highlights the dangers associated with an activity in which people participate at many levels.
“It is imperative that any individual or group engaged in this activity realise the importance of adequate route planning and an understanding of the watercourse,” board chairperson Claire Callanan recommended.
“Risk assessments of all stretches of river intended for use should be carried out and particular attention should be taken of the varying levels of competence among those taking part in all aspects of the activity,” she said.
The annual report added that where clubs are involved in training, it is imperative that they have a robust safety management system in place and ensure that training sessions are given by coaches with the required skills level.
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