7 Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Safety Tips
Regardless of your experience level, it’s important to stay safe on the water when paddleboarding. Prepare for your time on the water with these tips.
Check the Conditions
Be sure to check the weather forecast when you arrive and for the entire day. Changes to weather conditions can occur rapidly, making paddleboarding more difficult or dangerous. If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to make sure you go out on a calm day when the water is calm and wind minimal. Exercise caution when winds are blowing away from shore or towards open water as the wind can make it difficult to make it back to shore.
Be aware of your SUP location’s hazards. This includes tides, other boaters, swimmers, submerged structures, or anything else you might encounter on the water.
Dress for Safety
Dress for the water temperature. If the water is at or below 60° Fahrenheit, you should wear a wetsuit. Wear brightly colored clothing to make it easier for power boats and other watercraft to see you. Don’t assume other power boaters can see you. Paddleboards can be difficult to see due to being flat.
Wear a Leash
Be sure to wear a leash when paddleboarding. The leash prevents your paddleboard from getting away from you if you fall into the water. Even a light breeze or slow current can quickly separate you from your paddleboard if you’re not attached. Use a quick-release leash if you are paddling in any conditions where being tied to your paddleboard could prove dangerous.
Wear a Portable Floatation Device (PFD)
Even if you are an experienced and confident swimmer, you should wear a life jacket while on the water. Be sure you’re wearing a Type III life jacket for paddling.
Communicate Your Plans
Always let someone who is not paddling with you know where you will be paddling and at what time you plan to be back. Don’t leave on your trip without taking a way to communicate during emergency situations. Your cellphone should be stored in a waterproof pouch, and only considered as a backup communication device. It could get wet, or you might not have a signal. Take a handheld VHF marine radio. This allows you to communicate with boat traffic and the Coast Guard.
Paddle with a Buddy
It never hurts to paddle with a buddy. It’s going to be more fun and memorable to share the experience with someone, and should the unexpected occur, having someone to help is always a plus.
Take a Course
Consider taking some stand up paddleboard lessons from a local class or check out the ACA paddlesports online course.
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