Safety is a really important part of paddling, and it doesn’t matter if you are new to thew sport or have been doing it for years. If you know you are safe on the water then you can have a great time. But what can you do to be as safe as possible? Lots of things! From having the right kit to checking the weather. There are also a variety of courses you can take to be safer on the water. Have a look below at what Paddle UK has on offer.
Paddle Safer Course
The Paddle Safer award is exactly what it says on the tin. This practical course is aimed at new or novice paddlers and gives you top tips and considerations to support you to paddle safer. Over two hours, you will develop a better understanding of how to be safe when taking to the water.
Your instructor will work with you to develop your knowledge around equipment and environmental factors, as well as practical rescues. Open to all craft, typical craft would include kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, sit on tops and inflatables.
Find a Delivery Partner, club or coach near you to run a course.
SUP Safer Course
Just like Paddle Safer, SUP Safer is a practical course that gives you top tips and considerations to support you to stand up paddleboard safely. Your 4 hour course will support you to consider safe practices, explore and learn to appreciate the potential hazards you might encounter and be prepared to avoid or deal with them. You will explore how to choose the appropriate equipment and develop an understanding of the factors which affect your paddling, such as the environment and weather.
Visit the Paddles Up Training website to find a course near you.
Paddlesport Safety and Rescue Course
This 6 hour course is all about keeping you safe on your craft in sheltered water venues and aims to provide peace of mind when venturing out onto the water. You will explore and practice simple strategies and safe skills that provide you with the tools to solve common paddling issues.
It doesn’t matter about your age or whether you have limited paddling experience, this course supports your knowledge and raises your awareness of your personal safety. The course will cover clothing and equipment, contact and towing rescues, self-rescues, as well as deep water rescues.
Visit the Paddles Up Training website to find a course near you.
Supportive videos and resources
If you’re looking to watch examples of sheltered water rescues, we’ve got a whole host of bank based rescues, SUP rescues, mixed craft rescues, open canoe and kayak rescues… check them out.
