Having a good fitting life vest that functions well is imperative, they do make vest specifically for kayakers that are very functional and comfortable. Coast Guard regulations require that all kayaks have a lifejacket on board. Wearing your lifejacket will help keep your head above water AND add insulation keeping you warmer in cold the cold Puget Sound.

You will also want to lash your kayak paddle to your boat, this is a good practice even when not crabbing. Nothing fancy is needed, even a sturdy shoelace that is well knotted will do the trick. Nothing worse than losing a paddle on the Sound.

If you do happen to get pinched by a crab, hold the back end with one hand and pull away the pinched hand until the crabs pincer separates from its body. Clearly this is not good for you or the crab so be extra diligent when handling.

Know your limits. We paddled for years before we first tried setting crab traps. Take some time to get familiar with your equipment and know your limits, try paddling different weather conditions before trying crabbing.

Plan an escape route - an alternative place to get off the water should environmental conditions change drastically.

Be well aware of weather conditions and water temperature. Prepare for changes in weather and the possibility of a capsize. Puget Sound weather can change quickly so make sure you look at a forecast before you go.

Be aware of off-shore winds and currents that make it difficult to return to shore. Some areas of Puget Sound like Deception Pass have amazingly strong currents and are only for advance users so make sure you know the area you/re exploring. It can sometimes take a lot more time and energy to go one way than the other.

Bright colors make your more visible to larger boats. Shop for bright colored boats and wear bright colored clothing.

In warm weather, a long sleeve shirt can provide sun protection and a little sun screen lotion goes a long way. Don't be fooled by cool Puget Sound breezes, you will be getting exposed to a lot of sun especially reflected sun off the water.

Never mix alcohol or drugs with boating. Just because its legal here does not mean its a good idea while kayaking. You will want your best judgement about you in case of an emergency.

Always check your equipment for wear and tear before you go, the barnacles of Puget Sound can chew up a hull quickly. And never exceed the weight capacity of your boat.

Brush up on self-rescue first in shallow areas first and then again in more extreme conditions.

Tell a friend or neighbor your paddle plan, which includes: where you are going, what you will be doing, how long you expect to be gone and how many people are in your group.

Don't rely on cell phones, but they can be stored safely in a wet bag in case of an emergency.

Be aware of shipping lanes and how to avoid them, especially Washington State Ferries that travel predictable routes and times. It is difficult to judge the speed and direction of a large boat from the water and ferries turn around frequently making them even harder to gauge.

Always bring plenty of food and water.

When paddling in a new area, check with locals regarding currents, shoreline conditions and other weather patterns.

Give wildlife plenty of space and be aware of regulations concerning Killer Whales. Don't get too close and stay out of their path.

There are lots of places that teach safe paddling techniques in the area and a class would be perfect and safe place to try this out before you go at it alone. Maybe you will even make a new crab loving friend that will want to go out with you.