Biomate ICE tag

The growth of paddleboarding has many positive aspects, but some challenges have arisen, namely the number of call-outs for rescue services. One issue they are dealing with is reports of boards found along the coastline or lake shore with no paddler in sight.

This will raise a number of questions: Is the paddler missing or injured? Where are they now? Whom do we contact to check if they are actually safely on land? Likewise, if the board and paddler are found together but injured, it can be helpful to have medical information if treatment is required.

The Whitehaven Coastguard advised, “We would like to take the opportunity to remind all kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards users to label their equipment with a name and contact number to expedite searches.”

I was delighted, therefore, when Louise at Mudmate, a Paddle UK Partner, sent me an ICE tag to review. ICE (In Case of Emergency) tags are made of tough outdoor UV-stable acrylic with a strong, reusable Velcro tie that attaches to the D-ring or strap on your board. The tie means that while it is secure, you can move it between boards. The tag is engraved and water – and mud-resistant. The information will not fade or peel off.

You can buy them with two or three lines of information. Mine has three: my name and contact number, my emergency contact name and number, and that I am allergic to a type of medication. It also has a handy reminder to ‘check-clean and dry’ to avoid spreading invasive non-native species (INNS).

At £6.99 plus shipping and with an approximate turnaround of a week, this is an ideal way to add to your safety kit. With Christmas on the horizon, it’s also a perfect gift for yourself or anyone who loves SUP.
Price: £6.99 plus shipping