Don't let the warm air temperature fool you. The Chesapeake Bay water temps are still in the 40's. You could find yourself in big trouble if you should fall in and get separated from your board. Here are some chilling facts about hypothermia:
The United States Search and Rescue Task Force has a risk list for when hypothermia might set in if you are submersed in water:
Water temperature: 32.5 to 40 degrees
Time until exhaustion or unconsciousness: 15 to 30 minutes
Expected time of survival in the water: 30 to 90 minutes
Water temperature: 40 to 50 degrees
Time until exhaustion or unconsciousness: 30 to 60 minutes
Expected time of survival in the water: 1 to 3 hours
Water temperature: 50 to 60 degrees
Time until exhaustion or unconsciousness: 1 to 2 hours
Expected time of survival in the water: 1 to 6 hours.
People have survived longer or shorter periods of time than outlined on this list. These are estimates.
At the very minimum, paddling on the bay, you should be wearing a "spring" wetsuit. Spring suits are generally recommended for water temps in the 60's, but should you fall in, they will help keep your core warm until you can climb back on your board. 3/2 full suits will keep you warm in water down to the mid fifties. If you are surfing, you still need a minimum of 4/3 wetsuit. Unfortunately, any of these suits will feel hot on these 80 degree days, so make sure you stay hydrated.
O'neill Hammer 2/1 Spring $94.95
If it is windy, , we highly recommend a coiled leash. It will keep you from getting separated from your board, it won't be in your way and it adds a huge amount of safety.
XM coiled leash $31.95
Don't forget the two biggest safety rules. Wear your PFD, and always stay with your board!
MTI Fluid Pack $ 120
ALOHA!
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