Here is a summary sheet from "Deep Trouble" and other accident sources I give all my students and use while working at Symposiums.

Recurring kayaking problems - books, articles and personal knowledge
(From “Deep Trouble”, other books and articles, Alaskan accident reports)

Not dressed for immersion

Weather and water conditions changed!
Not getting out of the water and onto your kayak immediately
Paddling in conditions rougher than your practice sessions

Weather and water conditions changed!
Lack of bracing skills
Lack of boat control skills

Can't turn the kayak in windy conditions (don't use the correct

strokes, edging of the kayak, or paddle use; too rudder dependent)
Didn't take preventative action-paddle float bracing, rafting up, drogue

chute, paddling in formation to protect/help each other
Relying on self rescue instead of group or partner rescue
PFD not worn
Tried to swim-greater heat loss, disorientation, left visible floatation
Inadequate flotation for kayak
Spray skirt not on cockpit
Losing kayak and/or paddle (no grab lines or leashes)
Losing safety gear during rescue attempt time
Lack of use or lack of skill in using paddle floats
No signals or not using them correctly
Not able to pump out submerged cockpit

Inadequate floatation, skirt off, volume of doubles
Not having up to date weather information
No good float plan (time, who, where, colors, alternatives, etc.)
Did not have objective decision making plan for go/no go
Lack of knowledge of local weather patterns
Didn't think of wind, wave, tide, currents to face later in the paddling day
Waited too late to escape or ask for rescue help.
No tow lines or throw lines
Not knowing how to use tide and current charts/information
No compass or skill at knowing accurate directions
No idea of own paddling speed
Not every kayak had its own necessary safety gear

Be a safe and happy paddler.
Randy Knauff Wilderness Adventures

Kayaking can look so simple to people starting out. Of all the sports I have done (mountaineering, ice climbing and glacier travel, long distance biking and hiking, rafting, white water, back country skiing, etc.) sea kayakers (even experienced ones) more often go out with inadequate equipment, lack of training and skills, improperly set up equipment, lack of group protection mentality/knowledge, and awareness of their environment of any sporting group I know.
Any ideas why?

Randy