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Safe SUP Use
Safe SUP surfing is not to be taken lightly. This is true not only for yourself, as well, for those close in proximity to you. Be considerate and aware of everyone near you. Take the time to check the regulations for your local waters. Know the safety regulations for the waters where you will be paddling.

Safe SUP surfing tips

  •  Paddle with a buddy
  •  Wear a PFD
  •  Let someone know your plans
  •  Do not underestimate potential dangers, even on familiar waters 
  •  Carry a whistle
  • Do Not use the SUP at night
  • Wear bright coloured clothes to be more visible to others on the same waters
  •  Practice safe surfing!

An ankle leash must be worn at all times.
An ankle leash is an important component to SUP safety. If you fall into moving water wearing an ankle leash, you won't lose your board, which could save your life.

Remember, the current may be moving faster than you can to swim. 
Think water safety at all times.
STAY WITH YOUR BOARD AT ALL TIMES  
Wear the supplied PFD at all times

 

Stay close to shore
Staying close to shore is not just safer but you will be able to see more wildlife on the shore and also you may be able to see crabs, fish etc on the bottom below you.
High winds don’t have to mean high risk
Safe surfing means knowing what to do in the event of something unforeseen. If you get caught in unexpected high winds and paddling becomes difficult, kneeling to paddle creates less resistance. Alternately, get on your stomach (prone position); tuck the paddle blade under your chest with the handle pointing straight outwards in front of you and hand-paddle to safety. Prone position will give you the least resistance, keep you safer, and allow you to propel forward much more easily until help arrives.
Do not use the SUP if the wind is over 10 kts (if you can see white horses) not only is it unsafe but the wind will make paddling hard work and take the fun out of the session.
 STAY WITH YOUR BOARD AT ALL TIMES  
Upwind or downwind? Make the safe choice for you
Depending on your skills and strength, consider paddling against the wind at the start and with the wind to your back on your way home to avoid fatigue—a good SUP safety tip.
Stand up paddling in unfamiliar waters
Plan ahead. Ask the locals where it is safe to paddle. Water can look safe, but unexpected currents, eddies, underwater obstructions and unexpected winds or storms can pose serious danger. Practice SUP safety: paddle with a buddy!
Take the advice given by Sailrepair when collecting the board.

Who has the right of way?
When approaching a vessel or vice versa, you must give right-of-way to a vessel that is larger than your own. Don't assume a motorized vessel, watercraft or any larger vessel can see you. Wear bright coloured clothing. Think safe surfing!
Stay out of the way of all other boats etc.

What to do In a distress situation
Imagine you’re dealing with

  • a broken paddle
  • a dangerous area
  • a physical injury
  • unexpected strong winds, waves or currents

Sit on your board and wave your arms or wave the paddle above your head to attract attention. Again, if you're wearing bright clothing you'll be more easily seen.

Paddle Boarding Scotland

Seawinds, Kirk Brae, Shandon, Helensburgh, Argyll, G84 8NP

Tel. 01436 820948 or 07881 581618. email info@paddleboardingscotland.com

Part of Sailrepair.co.uk

www.sailrepair.co.uk - Windsurfing website. www.maverx.co.uk - windsurfing masts. www.supfishing.co.uk - All about fishing from a paddleboard