It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, falling in the water can be a shock for anyone. The whole reason you are on your paddleboard, in your kayak, or in your canoe is to avoid being in the water! So here are our top tips to avoid being in the water and what to do if you do fall in the water.
Up Skill
It goes without saying that the more skills you have on/in your craft the less likely you are to fall in….. most of the time. You may find that you fall in a bit while learning new techniques and skills, but that is half the fun. But by the time you have mastered skills such as turning, bracing, rolling, and much more, you will find yourself staying nice and dry throughout your paddles. Find your local paddling centre and course provider here.
Kit
What you are wearing can make a huge difference should you fall in. Most importantly, you should always be wearing a personal floatation device (PDF), which will help you to float should you go for a swim. It can also act as an extra layer of insulation in the colder months, helping you stay warm. Some good thermals will help you stay warm for as long as they are dry, so it may be worth packing a few extra in a dry bag and taking them with you. Accessories such as gloves and shoes will help keep your extremities warm. Finally, a waterproof outer layer will help you stay dry too, especially if there are seals around the neck, wrists and ankles.
Temperature
Living in Britain, we know the weather and water very rarely becomes toasty. So it is worth being prepared for it to be on the cooler side. Start off by checking the weather before you get on the water, you may find it is going to be cold or windy so postpone the paddle. Cold water shock is something that can happen all year round, so have a read on how to spot it and what to do. In the winter, or even autumn and spring, it can be cold after getting wet too. So having a change of clothes and warm drinks to hand is key.
Rescue
Getting yourself out of the water in the quickest and most efficient way possible is a priority. There are lots of ways to do this, but the easiest and fastest is usually with the help of other people. So try and make sure you paddle with people where possible. If you are wanting to venture out solo, make sure you are in an environment where you are able to perform a self-rescue. Check out the Paddle UK youtube channel for a whole range of videos walking you through the types of rescues that may be of use. When performing any kind of rescue the priority should be to get the person first, then their kit. And never try and rescue anyone or anything if it is going to put you at risk too.
