If you are a kayaker, I bet you’ll never know a more deceiving thing in your kayak experience. Imagine you are calmly paddling in some fine afternoon along a river and some split-second you discover yourself drowning along with your kayak in some swirling water.
These are called low head dams. You’ll never understand you are moving toward one unless you are already on top of one.
Feels dangerous, huh?
Indeed! Now the million-dollar question is: What should you do when approaching a low-head dam in a canoe or kayak? I covered that for you but the one phrase answer will be ‘Never face one’. I wish you never have to use my advised tips but let’s be ready to face anything and everything together.
What is a low-head dam?
Table of Contents
A low-Head dam – DROWNING MACHINE, as they call it is a man-made structure built for hydropower, flood control, and the storage of water for many municipal and industrial reasons and to serve a wide variety of purposes.
It runs across the full width of the river from one side to the other. This dam is called a low-head because the head of the solid structural wall can never be visible. It’s always under the water’s surface.
The water appears to be so tranquil before the dam like the calm before a storm. On one side of the low-head dam, the water level is high compared to the other side.
So with the increasing amount of water at the higher-level side, water rushes toward the other side free-flowing over the dam wall with great velocity and force leading the water to form a violent swirling shape called ‘a boil’.
Deadly – who? If luckily you ever survived a low head dam, ain’t nobody can make you enjoy water anymore!
What should you do when approaching a low-head dam in a canoe or kayak?
Please. Avoid. It. Entirely. – is all I want to say.
But if you wake up unlucky on any day, and decided to go kayaking for some reason in a canoe or kayak, you should know approaching a low head dam isn’t so surprising. But as you approach, you need to know what you may do to avoid the upcoming death zone.
1. Keep your brain cool
First of all, keep calm. Panicking will do nothing more than worsen the situation. At that moment approaching, your brain needs enough calmness to think properly and most importantly – quickly! You might have only a few seconds to decide what to do next.
2. Stay at safe distance from the dam
If you realize approaching a low head dam, don’t you dare go close to it! The hydraulic force is so intense on the dam that your arm force of paddling may feel too bland and it becomes too late to reverse the upcoming fatality.
3. Paddle back instead
When you are at a safe distance, now you can paddle back upstream. The more distant you’ll be from the deadly dam, consider yourself safer. Paddle in the opposite direction or in any direction that is safer.
4. Paddle to the shore
The easiest way to be safe is directly paddling to the shore. Shore can save you and both your favorite kayak from all kinds of the danger of the water. Don’t feel secure enough and stop paddling to shore until you have ground under your feet.
5. Walk with your boat around the dam
If it’s necessary to go on the other side of the dam or you want to paddle there, don’t just decide to go there over the dam. This might seem the shortest way but I promise you! -this is also going to be the scariest one in your entire life – if you survive of course! Not always a shortcut is a better option.
If you indeed want to go on the other side, after reaching the shore, carry your boat and walk with it around the dam on the groundway. When you’ll reach a calm water surface on the other side, you can float your kayak or canoe again.
Why are low head dams made?
After seeing the life-threatening danger, you might be wondering why on earth they are still in use!
It’s because it was never meant to be dangerous in the first place. In fact, the irony is it was made for public improvement and safety. Many low head dams were built in the 1800s and early 1900s, back in those days they used to control the water flow rate during floods, help with the irrigation process, etc.
They were useful for power mills and related industries. Back in those days, I guess it was a wonderful thing, not a fearful thing. So it made complete sense why low head dams are made.
Is a low head dam dangerous?
Dangerous? – It’s the most deadly thing to a paddler on water. It may look not-so-dangerous from the outside, but trust me you have no idea what’s happening below the surface. Hydraulic force is something you should never underestimate.
It can result finally in your death. The heavy circulating force of the water on the dam will suck you below and the constant hydraulic force will do no less duty than keeping you stuck to the dam wall at any cost. You’ll understand how dangerous it is when it’ll be too late to survive.
How to escape a low head dam?
You should never be in a situation where you have no other option but to escape a low head dam to survive. Prevention is always better than cure – as they say! So avoid being on the low head killing machine in the first place.
If you want to go on the other side, just paddle to the shore and walk past the dam on the groundway. But if in case, you don’t see it coming and unfortunately are about to be stuck to death in a low head dam, one escaping technique might save your life if you got lucky.
You have to get out of the kayak first and give a last brave try to save your guts by diving down into the water of the low-head dam. You see, there are two slots of water there. The upstream of the dam with hydraulic power keeps on making a swirl blocking everything in that swirl like a washing machine movement.
But if you manage to dive downstream or underwater of a low-head dam, there’s a chance to just keep on flowing forward with that letting the water save your life. You have to be extremely cautious – It’s a do-or-die situation!
Why are low head dams dangerous to small boats and paddle craft?
Low head dams are actually dangerous for everything but usually small boats and paddle crafts are the fatal victims of it mostly. The reason being a small size, anything less in size should be extra careful on any river. Especially having a proper map pointing out all the low head dams in that area is a must.
These things are life-taking mostly because they are submerged in water and very tough to see seating on a small boat or paddle craft. Many times, the only way to see this invisible giant is to be on it.
But I guess none wants this dangerous luxury. The water on the dam appears very calm and running through the dam it gains hydraulic power and appears exactly opposite on the other side. But because of the dam structure, all the violence is happening on the lower level of water.
A paddler seating on a small boat doesn’t have the required elevation to see that disturbed water on the other side of the dam. So for any small boats and paddle crafts, the low head dam appears to be invisible.
So not knowing the existence of this killing machine, the paddlers of these watercraft become the most victims.
Low-head dam dangers: What to do if you are in a kayak?
The only way to be safe from a low head dam is to stay far-far away from it. Once you are stuck in it, you become completely your own, even the rescue team can hardly save you.
So if you are going to be in a kayak, firstly bring along a proper map of the area where all the dams are pointed out, also communicate with the locals and other paddlers about the locations of these dams. And take my advice – go in the other directions!
Is it dangerous to swim in a dam?
Of course, it is! It will be the dumbest thing a person will be doing if it’s voluntary. Though if you are in a kayak and are about to fall in a low head dam, this dumb thing can save your life as well.
All you need to do is dive very low on the water of the dam closer to the surface. With the straight flowing downstream of the dam, you might not get stuck in the circulating upstream water and have a second chance to live.
Can a person survive going through a dam?
The percentage of surviving through a low head dam is very very low but not literally impossible. There have been some examples of survival in the USA and other parts of the world but the number is too low to boost your confidence.
So the wise decision is always to stay away from it.
Final thoughts
After reading everything I had to say about low-head dams and their danger, staying away from them may seem not only a better option but the only option as well to you. But well, if you love taking challenges and adventures in life and exploring something new on a low head damn, but your elders are stopping you, you definitely should go for it. Right?
Wrong! I think sometimes you should listen to your elders. Because in some cases, being wise rather than being brave is the best option.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me. https://www.binance.com/ru/register?ref=V3MG69RO
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good. https://accounts.binance.com/en-IN/register-person?ref=UM6SMJM3
Клиника “Эмпатия” оказывает комплексную помощь в области ментального благополучия.
Здесь принимают опытные психологи и психотерапевты, которые помогут в сложных ситуациях.
В “Эмпатии” используют современные методики терапии и персональные программы.
Центр помогает при депрессии, тревожных расстройствах и сложностях.
Если вы ищете комфортное место для решения психологических проблем, “Эмпатия” — верное решение.
addtopurl.com
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
В России сертификация имеет большое значение для подтверждения соответствия продукции установленным стандартам. Она необходима как для производителей, так и для потребителей. Документ о сертификации гарантирует соответствие товара нормам и требованиям. Особенно это актуально для товаров, влияющих на здоровье и безопасность. Прошедшие сертификацию компании чаще выбираются потребителями. Также сертификация может быть необходима для участия в тендерах и заключении договоров. В итоге, сертификация способствует развитию бизнеса и укреплению позиций на рынке.
обязательная сертификация
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.
Здесь вы найдете клинику ментального здоровья, которая обеспечивает профессиональную помощь для людей, страдающих от тревоги и других психических расстройств. Мы предлагаем эффективные методы для восстановления ментального здоровья. Наши опытные психологи готовы помочь вам преодолеть психологические барьеры и вернуться к психологическому благополучию. Квалификация наших психологов подтверждена множеством положительных обратной связи. Запишитесь с нами уже сегодня, чтобы начать путь к лучшей жизни.
http://jensbars.com/__media__/js/netsoltrademark.php?d=empathycenter.ru%2Fpreparations%2Fm%2Fmelatonin%2F
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
В наступающем году будут в тренде смелые палитры, естественные материалы и экстравагантный крой.
Не обойтись без ярких элементов и нестандартных рисунков.
Гуру стиля предлагают экспериментировать текстурами и не бояться современные тенденции в свой образ.
Классика никуда не исчезает, однако их стоит дополнить оригинальными элементами.
Так что ключ к стилю 2024 года — самовыражение и грамотное комбинирование классики с трендами.
https://telegra.ph/Rick-Owens-tyomnaya-poehziya-mody-03-06
Swiss watches have long been a gold standard in horology. Expertly made by renowned brands, they seamlessly blend classic techniques with cutting-edge engineering.
All elements embody unmatched workmanship, from intricate mechanisms to luxurious materials.
Owning a Swiss watch is a true statement of status. It represents sophisticated style and exceptional durability.
Be it a minimalist aesthetic, Swiss watches deliver extraordinary beauty that never goes out of style.
https://uyghuryol.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=288171
Ordering medicine online has become way more convenient than visiting a local drugstore.
No need to deal with crowds or worry about limited availability.
Internet drugstores give you the option to buy prescription drugs from home.
Many platforms offer special deals in contrast to physical stores.
https://sxemazarabotka.ru/forums/topic/strah-nochi/page/4/#post-799597
On top of that, it’s easy to browse various options easily.
Quick delivery means you get what you need fast.
Have you tried buying medicine online?
На этом сайте можно найти актуальные политические события со всего мира. Ежедневные публикации позволяют оставаться в курсе главных новостей. На сайте публикуются дипломатических переговорах. Объективная аналитика помогают оценить происходящее. Следите за новостями на этом сайте.
https://justdoitnow03042025.com
Our platform features a large variety of slot games, suitable for different gaming styles.
Here, you can explore retro-style games, new generation slots, and huge-win machines with high-quality visuals and immersive sound.
No matter if you’re into simple gameplay or love bonus-rich rounds, you’ll find something that suits you.
https://ok-vmeste.ru/toget/2614-predpochitaete-sygrat-v-interesnyi-igrovoi-avtomat-sweet-bonanza.html
All games are available 24/7, no download needed, and well adapted for both desktop and smartphone.
In addition to games, the site provides slot guides, special offers, and user ratings to guide your play.
Join now, spin the reels, and have fun with the world of digital reels!
На этом сайте вы можете наслаждаться широким ассортиментом игровых слотов.
Слоты обладают яркой графикой и захватывающим игровым процессом.
Каждый игровой автомат предоставляет особые бонусные возможности, увеличивающие шансы на выигрыш.
1х
Игра в слоты подходит игроков всех уровней.
Есть возможность воспользоваться демо-режимом, а затем перейти к игре на реальные деньги.
Попробуйте свои силы и окунитесь в захватывающий мир слотов.
Taking one’s own life is a serious topic that impacts many families across the world.
It is often linked to emotional pain, such as depression, trauma, or substance abuse.
People who consider suicide may feel trapped and believe there’s no solution.
how-to-kill-yourself.com
It is important to raise awareness about this matter and help vulnerable individuals.
Mental health care can reduce the risk, and finding help is a crucial first step.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek help.
You are not forgotten, and there’s always hope.
Здесь вам открывается шанс испытать обширной коллекцией игровых слотов.
Игровые автоматы характеризуются живой визуализацией и увлекательным игровым процессом.
Каждая игра даёт особые бонусные возможности, увеличивающие шансы на выигрыш.
1xbet игровые автоматы
Слоты созданы для любителей азартных игр всех мастей.
Есть возможность воспользоваться демо-режимом, и потом испытать азарт игры на реальные ставки.
Попробуйте свои силы и окунитесь в захватывающий мир слотов.
Здесь представлены онлайн-игры из казино Вавада.
Каждый гость сможет выбрать автомат по интересам — от классических одноруких бандитов до современных моделей с бонусными раундами.
Vavada предлагает доступ к проверенных автоматов, включая прогрессивные слоты.
Все игры доступен круглосуточно и подходит как для ПК, так и для телефонов.
vavada бонусы
Игроки могут наслаждаться азартом, не выходя из квартиры.
Интерфейс сайта удобна, что обеспечивает без труда начать играть.
Присоединяйтесь сейчас, чтобы погрузиться в мир выигрышей!
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.
Онлайн-площадка — интернет-представительство профессионального сыскного бюро.
Мы организуем помощь в сфере сыскной деятельности.
Штат сотрудников работает с абсолютной конфиденциальностью.
Наша работа включает сбор информации и выявление рисков.
Нанять детектива
Каждое дело обрабатывается персонально.
Опираемся на современные методы и соблюдаем юридические нормы.
Если вы ищете реальную помощь — свяжитесь с нами.
This online service provides various medications for online purchase.
Anyone can quickly order health products from anywhere.
Our product list includes popular treatments and specialty items.
All products is provided by trusted suppliers.
https://community.alteryx.com/t5/user/viewprofilepage/user-id/576682
We prioritize discreet service, with private checkout and on-time dispatch.
Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, you’ll find safe products here.
Start your order today and experience convenient healthcare delivery.
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
It’s alarming to realize that 1 in 3 medication users commit preventable medication errors because of insufficient information?
Your health requires constant attention. Each pharmaceutical choice you implement significantly affects your long-term wellbeing. Maintaining awareness about the drugs you take is absolutely essential for successful recovery.
Your health depends on more than swallowing medications. Every medication interacts with your biological systems in potentially dangerous ways.
Never ignore these life-saving facts:
1. Taking incompatible prescriptions can cause fatal reactions
2. Even common allergy medicines have potent side effects
3. Self-adjusting treatment reduces effectiveness
To avoid risks, always:
✓ Check compatibility via medical databases
✓ Study labels thoroughly before taking any medication
✓ Ask your pharmacist about potential side effects
___________________________________
For professional drug information, visit:
https://www.provenexpert.com/twirla-online/
The digital drugstore features an extensive variety of health products with competitive pricing.
Shoppers will encounter various remedies to meet your health needs.
We work hard to offer high-quality products without breaking the bank.
Quick and dependable delivery provides that your purchase arrives on time.
Enjoy the ease of ordering medications online on our platform.
tadacip vs cialis
The site offers buggy rentals on the island of Crete.
Travelers may easily book a vehicle for fun.
When you’re looking to explore hidden beaches, a buggy is the ideal way to do it.
https://peatix.com/user/26412811/view
The fleet are regularly serviced and available for daily bookings.
Booking through this site is simple and comes with clear terms.
Get ready to ride and discover Crete on your own terms.
Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me.
Наличие страхового полиса во время путешествия — это необходимая мера для финансовой защиты путешественника.
Страховка включает расходы на лечение в случае обострения болезни за границей.
К тому же, полис может обеспечивать оплату на медицинскую эвакуацию.
страховка авто
Многие страны предусматривают предъявление страховки для получения визы.
Без страховки госпитализация могут стать дорогими.
Получение сертификата заблаговременно
Il nostro servizio consente l’ingaggio di persone per compiti delicati.
Gli interessati possono selezionare candidati qualificati per incarichi occasionali.
Le persone disponibili vengono scelti con attenzione.
assumi assassino
Sul sito è possibile visualizzare profili prima della selezione.
La sicurezza è al centro del nostro servizio.
Esplorate le offerte oggi stesso per ottenere aiuto specializzato!
Данный ресурс — аутентичный онлайн-магазин Bottega Veneta с отгрузкой по всей России.
На нашем сайте вы можете купить фирменную продукцию Bottega Veneta с гарантией подлинности.
Каждый заказ подтверждены сертификатами от марки.
bottega-official.ru
Отправка осуществляется без задержек в любой регион России.
Бутик онлайн предлагает безопасные способы оплаты и простую процедуру возврата.
Покупайте на официальном сайте Боттега Венета, чтобы получить безупречный сервис!
在这个网站上，您可以雇佣专门从事一次性的高风险任务的专业人士。
我们整理了大量可靠的从业人员供您选择。
无论需要何种挑战，您都可以轻松找到合适的人选。
为了钱而下令谋杀
所有执行者均经过审核，维护您的安全。
任务平台注重效率，让您的特殊需求更加无忧。
如果您需要更多信息，请立即联系！
Through this platform, you can browse various CS:GO gaming sites.
We offer a selection of betting platforms centered around CS:GO players.
These betting options is tested for quality to guarantee safety.
cs2 upgrade
Whether you’re new to betting, you’ll easily discover a platform that meets your expectations.
Our goal is to guide you to connect with the top-rated CS:GO gambling websites.
Explore our list at your convenience and enhance your CS:GO playing experience!