1. PREPARE YOUR EQUIPMENT
Make sure your board is pumped up to the recommended PSI, your paddle
is in working order and all of your equipment is suitable for any and all
conditions that could arise.

2. PREPARE YOURSELF
Make sure you're dressed appropriately for the weather but most
importantly the water temperature. Be prepared to fall in and get cold.
Sometimes the water temperature is so cold that you may have trouble
swimming and keeping afloat due to the sudden shock to your body

3. WEAR A SAFETY LEASH
Use an ankle or waist leash at all times. You never know when the currents
are too strong and you could easily be swept away from the safety of your
board if you fall in.

4. WEAR A PFD
Wear a Buoyancy Aid or Waist Belt PFD (Personal Floatation Device). This
could help save your life if you are not a strong or experienced swimmer.

5. TAKE A PHONE
Plan ahead and always let someone know where you are going and when
you plan to be back. Arrange to call at a certain time so that somebody
knows if you are late and behind schedule. If you get in trouble dial 999 and
ask for the Coastguard. Consider having an app like what3words to help
pin-point your location if need be.

6. CHECK THE WEATHER FORECAST IN ADVANCE
Always check the wind and tide conditions and how it could affect your
paddle boarding trip. Make sure to look at a detailed report of the local
weather forecast so you know what the conditions for the day that lays
ahead. Be prepared. Paddling against the wind and the tide can be
exhausting, resulting in being dragged further away from safety.

7. PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Whenever you get a chance, practice rescuing yourself in nice calm easy
conditions. Try getting in the water and then have a go at getting back on
your board with all your kit on.

8. KEEP CALM
The most important point of all! If anything goes wrong then YOU will have
to do something about it so there is absolutely no point in panicking or
stressing as that will get you nowhere.