Paddling News

LA JOLLA, Calif. -- San Diego lifeguards plan to post signs detailing the ban on kayaks in the La Jolla Shores "swim zone". No new restrictions are being enacted but stricter enforcement, including the signs that describe what activity is not permitted, is taking place.

The action stems from an incident involving a swimmer who was struck so hard in the face by a kayak that a titanium implant in her face was bent and she ultimately lost five teeth, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

Long-standing city policy prohibits vessels in swim zones but that has not been vigorously enforced in the area, which extends from Avenida de la Playa to Roseland Drive, according to the newspaper.

The swimmer-kayak conflict comes at a time when the number of kayak rental businesses is rapidly increasing.

"The congestion is just making it very difficult to create a balance," lifeguard Capt. Rick Wurts told the Union-Tribune. "We have to take a by-the-book approach."

Article Source: 10news.com