Question

What are the biggest safety precautions while kayaking and in preparation before an outing?

Answer 1

Safety is always number one. Every outing should begin and continue with safety. Basically never go beyond your experience, comfort, and training level. It's just not worth it. People get in serious trouble when they get in way over their head like rapids, whitewater, ocean surf, etc..  things can turn bad quickly.

Answer 2

Always remember your PFD, always make a float plan and make sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to be back and what the plan is if you don't come back in time and they for some reason can't reach you on your phone. Other than that, make a checklist to remember your gear you will need for your outing, and remember to hydrate!

Answer 3

Know the weather conditions and tides.  Always tell somebody your plans.  Take fully charged cell phone in waterproof bag.  Always wear PDF and know your limits.  If you don't know an area, find somebody who does.