Here are FIVE key messages
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TO HELP STAY SAFE ON THE WATER THIS SUMMER
Wear a Personal Flotation Device
No matter how strong you think you are at swimming , wear a Personal Floatation Device ( PFD ). Buoyancy aids come in all shapes and sizes , so you can easily find one that fits well , is fit for purpose and is done up securely . Check out our guide on buying your first PFD .
When you are on a paddle board you might think “ I ’ m connected to a big inflatable , do I need a PDF ?”. The answer is YES ! You ’ re connected to the board now , but you may need to release yourself from it for some reason . It is also important to have the right leash on in this situation ( see graphic on page 8 ).
Carry a means of communication on you .
Mobile phone , VHF radio , or anything else that you can call for help on . Stick it in a waterproof pouch and put it in your pocket or in your PFD . You should carry your means of communication on you , not just on your board or in your boat . If you get into difficulty call for assistance , 999 and ask for Fire & Rescue if inland , or the Coastguard if in tidal waters .
There are also lots of useful apps you can install on your mobile . From safety apps , weather tracking apps , and paddling routes , you can find them all .
Paddle within your ability
You should always stay within your ability and skill level . For example , if you have never been paddle boarding on moving water then think about taking some courses to help build you up to that . British Canoeing has a number of courses to help you with your skills and safety , find a local provider near you . Think about where you are going to be paddling . Do you have the experience , skills and kit to be paddling on that water ? From having the correct leash for the environment , to knowing when you should be wearing a helmet , knowledge of safety is key .
If you remember these five key messages you are setting yourself up to have a good safe paddle . And if you see anyone who might not know these messages then pass them along . You might also want to check your craft before you head out onto the water . Check for any punctures or cracks that might give you that sinking feeling on the water . Get anything repaired before you hit the water , and carry an emergency repair kit with you .
If you want to find more safety information about paddling check out the safety articles here . For more safety at sea information check out the RNLI website .
Tell others of your plans
Give people FOMO and see if they want to come along . The more people on the water with you the safer ! And if they don ’ t fancy joining you , then tell them your plans so they can check you return safely . Making sure someone on land knows when you are going , where you are going , and when you ’ ll be back is all part of staying safe .
Check the Weather
When making your paddling plans always check the weather and plan accordingly . Make sure you wear enough layers for the temperatures , have waterproofs , and extra layers for ‘ just in case ’. Checking the weather will allow you dress appropriately for your paddle . This is both layers for the cold and for protecting yourself from the sun .
You can also spot any weather that is dangerous to paddle in ! We highly advise that you avoid paddling in a thunderstorm . Offshore winds should be avoided too . These are winds that blow away from the shoreline and into deep water and trouble .
If the weather doesn ’ t look good then think about changing your plans and paddle another day .
Canoe Focus Early Summer 2023