#PaddleSafe this summer

Paddle UK and the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI) have launched PaddleSafe – a summer safety campaign for all paddlers.

Together with the RNLI, the charity that saves lives at sea, we want to ensure paddlers stay safe on the water, whatever craft they choose.

The PaddleSafe campaign aims to raise awareness of how to prepare for any type of paddling and stay safe on any type of water. This could be at the coast or inland.

Being safe on the water will only increase the fun you can have. These are our FIVE key messages to stay safe on the water this summer:

Always wear a buoyancy aid
No matter how strong you think you are at swimming, wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD). Make sure it is fit for purpose and is done up securely. There are many things to consider when getting a PFD for you and your family, so check out our guide on buying your first PFD.

On a paddle board, you might think, “I’m connected to a big inflatable. Do I need one?“The answer is YES! You’re connected to it now, but you may need to release yourself from it for some reason. Having the right leash on in this situation is also essential, but more of that later.

Always wear a buoyancy aid

Tell someone where you’re going
Give people FOMO, make them jealous of your plans, 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 they know your plans and can check that you return safely. Making sure someone on land knows when you are going, where you are going, and when you will be back is all part of staying safe.

Tell someone where you’re going 

Carry a mobile phone
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 become separated from your craft, this is when you may need to call for assistance. Call 999 and ask for Fire & Rescue inland or the Coastguard in tidal waters.

Carry a mobile phone 

Check the weather
When making your paddling plans, always check the weather and plan accordingly. Ensure you wear enough layers for the temperatures, have waterproofs for any rain, and extra layers just in case. If it is sunny then make sure you take your sun protection!

You can also spot any weather that is dangerous to paddle in! We highly advise that you avoid padding in a thunderstorm. Offshore winds should be avoided too. If the weather doesn’t look good, think about changing your plans and paddle another day. Rain increases the currents of rivers, and winds can strengthen the tides. So, while checking the weather, cast an eye over the tides and currents of the waters you plan to paddle. Don’t let them catch you out.

Check the weather 

Know your limits
Take your skill level into account when planning a paddle. If you have never been paddle boarding on moving water then think about taking some courses to help build you up to that. You should always stay within your ability and skill level.

Think about where you are going to be paddling. Do you have the experience and skills for the water you’re planning on paddling on? Do you have the right kit to be paddling on that water? A key skill to have is to identify which safety kit you need for your paddle.
Paddle UK has several courses to help you level up your skills and safety. Check them out on the next page.

Know your limits