9 Safety Tips for Paddlers

Paddling offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, explore scenic waterways and enjoy moments on the ocean. Whether you’re kayaking down rapids, canoeing along tranquil rivers or stand up paddle boarding across coastlines, safety should always be a top priority for paddlers of all skill levels.

Image: Red Paddle Co

1 Wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD)

A properly fitted PFD is a critical piece of safety equipment for paddlers. Regardless of your swimming ability or the calmness of the water, in the event of an unexpected capsize or accident, a PFD can save your life by keeping you afloat. There are many different types of PFDs available to give you the best paddling experience. Typically, stand up paddle boarders will use compact inflatable designs to reduce bulk when paddling, whereas people in kayaks and canoes might be more likely to wear a buoyancy aid vest which doesn’t require manual inflation. It’s important to find a style that fits you well, doesn’t restrict your movement and has enough buoyancy for your weight.

2 Know your skill level and limits

Understanding your skill level will help you to stay safe and enjoy your sessions more. Beginners should stick to calm, sheltered waters with minimal hazards, such as lakes or slow-moving rivers. Intermediate and advanced paddlers may seek out more challenging conditions, such as whitewater rapids or open ocean paddling. Always assess the risks associated with your chosen route and ensure it aligns with your abilities.

3 Check weather conditions

Weather conditions and can significantly impact paddling safety. High winds, tidal currents, and rapid changes in temperature can pose serious risks to paddlers. Before heading out, check the weather forecast from reliable sources and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly. Pay attention to wind speed and direction, as strong gusts can make paddling difficult or lead to capsizing. Be especially cautious of sudden weather changes, which can catch paddlers off guard. Offshore winds are some of the most dangerous challenges for paddlers. They can make the water look calm, and you may not even feel much wind in the shelter of the land, but the wind can blow you out to sea very quickly, making it difficult to get back to shore. It’s often not noticible for paddlers how far they have drifted until it’s too late. If you’re unsure about the strength of the wind, paddle into it first, and then get a wind-assisted paddle back to the start so that you don’t get caught out.

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4 Tell someone where you’re going

PaddleLIVE® can inform your loved ones when you’re heading out on a paddle, keep them up to date with your exact location on the water and will notify them once you’ve finished up and you’re back safely on dry land. You can also choose to enter your expected session duration, and the app will check in with you. If you ever get into difficulty, it’ll notify your emergency contacts straight away. We hope you’ll never need it, but keeping someone informed of your plans means you can get help in an emergency much quicker.

5 Learn basic rescue techniques

Being proficient in both self-rescue and helping others is crucial for any emergencies on the water. You must be able to get back on your board if you fall, or into your kayak or canoe after a capsize, and many paddlers don’t practice often enough. Familiarise yourself with assisted rescues, including towing a distressed paddler to safety. Online resources, books, and instructional courses offered by paddling organizations are excellent sources of information for learning rescue techniques. Practice these skills in sheltered waters to build your confidence and your response will become automatic if you or others ever get into difficulty on the water.

6 Essential equipment

If you look after your equipment, it’ll help to look after you. Don’t forget to regularly check, test and maintain your leash, PFD, paddle, etc. Equipment breakages are a common cause of problems on the water. We can’t avoid everything, but we can minimise the risk. You can also take essential safety gear out on the water when you go paddling. Carrying a whistle and a means of communication such as your phone in a waterproof case are easy and small to stow away. For longer or more remote paddling trips, a spare paddle, towline, first aid kit and map or waterproof navigation device can be useful. Don’t forget to dress for the water temperatures and wear warm, waterproof clothing. Take extra layers with you to stay warm if needed and be aware of the effects of cold water shock.

7 Trust your instincts

Trust your instincts and intuition while paddling. If you feel uncomfortable or sense impending danger, don’t hesitate to alter your plans or seek assistance. Paddling should be enjoyable and rewarding, but safety always comes first.

8 Stay hydrated and sun protected

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining performance and preventing discomfort whilst you paddle. Dehydration can impare your judgement, decrease your endurance and increase the risk of accidents. Carry enough water and drink regularly, especially in hot or humid locations. Protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, so seek shade during breaks and wear a hat for added protection.

9 Always wear a leash

Leashes save lives. Stand up paddle boarders should wear a leash every time they hit the water (with the exception of white water SUP). It’s vital to stay attached to your board - being nearby will give you extra floatation if something goes wrong, and it’ll prevent the board causing injury to somebody else. In windy conditions, the board can very quickly get blown away from you making it tricky to climb back on. There are different types of leashes to familiarise yourself with - ankle, waist, and calf leashes, plus straight and coiled leashes, quick release systems, know which one is suitable for the type of paddling you’re doing. Often, kayak and canoe paddlers will not wear a leash due to the risk of getting trapped in their boats.

Prioritising safety is essential for every paddler, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. By following these essential tips and adopting a proactive approach to safety, you can minimise the risks and maximise your enjoyment during your adventures. Remember, a safe paddler is a happy paddler – so always paddle responsibly and respect the waterways that provide us with endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

If you want to try out PaddleLIVE® to stay connected during your next paddling adventure - download it from the App Store with a 7 day free trial today!