Paddle boarding is definitely THE watersport of the last few years. During the pandemic’s height, where staycations were in effect (along with furlough and so on), paddle boarding quickly became the best recreational pastime to make use of days at the coast, lake or river. Unfortunately with so many recruits – often with little to zero prior watersports experience – SUP related accidents have increased. Some with tragic results.
As of July 2022, with good weather in the mix and yet more paddlers taking to the water, there has been incidents where SUP boarders have sadly died. Details surrounding some of these situations aren’t always entirely clear due to authorities not willing to speculate whilst investigations are ongoing. The bottom line, however, is something needs to be done to try and stop this unnecessary loss of life. But what?
There’s much debate at the moment within SUP) circles about how to raise awareness and educate those without the right knowledge. Coiled SUP leashed attached to quick release belts are becoming more common (NCW provides these as standard with all SUP board packages sold). As is wearing additional buoyancy such as PFDs and personal floatation belts. This is great but isn’t quite enough as many newbie paddlers mightn’t even know what the aforementioned is. Let alone have a wider knowledge base that can help individuals identify potential hazards, interpret weather water conditions as well as everything else seasoned water people have on tap.
Over the last few months, we’ve seen key SUP brands and businesses lobbying parliament and ramping up their educational content to try and get the message out there. The big issue is how do you reach newbie paddlers if they don’t even know they should be looking for the information?
It’s a real tough one and there are no right or wrong answers.
Here at NCW we’re not only experienced paddle boarders we’re well versed in the ways of water in general. We’re happy to guide anyone along the safest path. And we’d urge any other experienced water users to pass on their knowledge. Unfortunately, we appreciate not all SUPers wants to know. All we can do is try…
NCW is watching with keen interest how the whole SUP safety element evolves. After all, we just want everyone to have a good time afloat. If you have any questions about paddle barding or other watersports get in touch.
Check out more paddle boarding articles here.