Paddleboarders urged to check sea conditions after rise in incidents in Cornwall
The RNLI says Storm Evert is a reminder of how quickly sea conditions can change
Last updated 31st Jul 2021
A warning is going out to beach-goers after a rise in incidents involving paddleboards in Cornwall.
The RNLI says Storm Evert, which hit the Duchy with 75mph winds, is a reminder of how quickly the sea can change.
Leon Bennett is a lifeguard supervisor at Padstow and is urging SUP'ers to take extra care on our coast.
"We've had quite a lot of stand-up paddleboarders getting into trouble recently so if you are purchasing or have purchased a stand-up paddleboard, it'd be worth looking at some of the conditions on the beach.
"The sea's an ever-changing beast so if the winds do go offshore and you do own a stand-up paddleboard, please be aware that it is an inflatable and you can get caught out".
Leon Bennett, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor
What is the safety advice for paddleboarders?
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest growing watersports and the RNLI has these tips to make sure you stay safe:
1) If you can, always go with a friend. It’s more fun, and they can help you if you get into difficulty.
2) If you are going out alone, always tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back. Don't leave the house without a mobile phone or communication device.
3) Bringing your phone to take some photos? Make sure you keep it in a waterproof pouch. That way it won’t get wet, and you can use it to call for help in an emergency too.
4) Check the weather forecast and tide times before you set out. If the water is too choppy, you might find it difficult, especially if you are a beginner. And be aware, the conditions can change quickly.
5) Avoid offshore winds. They will quickly blow your paddleboard far out to sea, which can make it extremely tiring and difficult to paddle back to shore.
6) You should wear a suitable personal flotation device. This can be a buoyancy aid or a lifejacket. Choose one that still allows you plenty of movement so you can paddle freely. Not only will it keep you afloat, but it will also help give you time to recover should you fall in – and chances are you will!
7) Wear suitable clothing for the time of year. In the winter, you will want to use a wet or dry suit. In the summer, you might be able to get away with a swim suit. But if you are going to be in the water for a long time, you might want to upgrade to something that keeps you warm.
8) You should always use a paddleboard with a appropriate leash. There’s nothing more frustrating than having to swim after your paddleboard if you fall off. The leash will also help you stay connected to your board if you get into trouble and help you float. British Canoeing has some great tips to help you decide which leash is right for you.
9) If you are launching on a lifeguarded beach, make sure you launch and recover between the black and white chequered flags. There should be less swimmers in this area, giving you more room to manoeuvre. Consider other water users by learning the rights of way in the surf. This can save you and others getting injured.
10) Get the appropriate level of training. You might be tempted to just buy a board and head out. Having a few training sessions can teach you the right technique, so it’s more stand-up and less fall-in paddleboarding!
You can read more safety tips and advice from the RNLI here.
The warning comes amid a campaign for two types of leashes to be supplied with new SUPs as standard, after the death of a holidaymaker in Cornwall.
42-year-old Simon Flynn's ankle leash got caught under a boat in the Camel Estuary at Rock.
The competent swimmer, who did multiple water sports and surfing, could not get free after the leash became entangled and pulled him under the water.
Speaking to our sister station, Greatest Hits Radio Cornwall, friend Sam said manufacturers should provide both types of leashes with new boards: Watch his story...
You can read more about Sam Foyle's campaign to create a lasting legacy for his friend here.