just SUP uk takes its responsibility for your safety very seriously. 

Stand-up paddle boarding is a safe sport but like all activities, especially those on the water, there is an element of risk. 

Below are some of the ways that we minimise that risk to ensure you have a great and safe paddleboard or kayak experience.     ​

Here are some of the ways we make sure you stay safe:

• All our equipment is checked daily.  

• We only use qualified Instructors to teach SUP lessons.

• Our Instructors are first aid trained as part of their qualification.

• Everyone must attend a safety briefing before going on the water.

• One person per group must take a mobile phone with them so you can call us if you need to (don't worry, we have water proof cases available for you to use for free).

• Everyone (EVERYONE) must wear a PFD (personal flotation device) when on the river (even us).

• Minimum age for using a paddleboard or kayak on your own is 12 years.

• Under 18's MUST be accompanied by an adult (parent/guardian) on the water. 

• We have a safety boat for emergencies.

• We check the Met Office weather forecast daily.  If the forecast is for high winds or lightening we may suspend our operation.

• We also check with the Environment Agency daily regarding the condition of the river.  If a YELLOW warning is issued by them, we may decide not to allow beginners on the water unaccompanied.  Like any outdoor activity we are at the mercy of the weather and on occasion it may be necessary to suspend our operation for safety reasons. 

​Lastly, to protect you (and us) we ask that everyone that hires a paddleboard or kayak, or that has a SUP lesson, completes our Consent and Medical Declaration Form (click the button below).

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The river is for everyone to enjoy and stand up paddle boarding and kayaking are very safe activities as long as we all take basic precautions, use common sense and follow the rules when out on the water.

1. Take your mobile with you.

2. Follow our instructions - we know what we're doing.

3. Kneel down on your board to paddle if you get tired or it's windy and also when leaving and returning to the bank.

4. Paddle on the RIGHT HAND SIDE  of the river.

5. Cover any new cuts on your feet with a waterproof plaster before going out.

6. Look out for rowers coming up behind you - they are going backwards.

7. Stay well away from locks and weirs.

8. Paddle responsibly and be courteous to other river users.

9. Wear suitable clothing including PFD & waist leash (see FAQ)

10. Wear sunscreen.

ok, 11.  11 Tips...

11. Check the weather conditions before you head out including the flow rate of the river. 

Remember,  IF IN DOUBT, DON'T GO OUT.​

 If you've got your own board...awsome

There's nothing better than heading out for SUP on your own or with friends in a group.

But being SAFE should be your number one priority so here are some key things you should consider

before getting out there. 

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WEATHER: 

• Wherever you are planning to SUP check the weather forecast at the location.  Remember to look at what the weather is likely to do later on as well as at the time you plan to get there.

• If SUPing on the coast, DO NOT paddle in offshore winds. ie. wind that is blowing off the land and on to the sea.  

• Only paddle in light winds.  Strong wind can make paddleboarding much harder, especially on an inflatable SUP.  Winds strength over 10knots/12mph/3Bf) are best avoided.

• DO NOT paddle if there is a risk of thunder/lightening.

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LOCATION:

• Check the launch and return points before hand to make sure you can enter and exit the water safely.

• Are there any local hazards, currents/tides, weather etc that you should be aware of? (ask a local if it's a new spot for you).

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EQUIPMENT:

• Take mobile phone with you (in a waterproof bag) and tell someone where you are going.

• Make sure ALL your kit is in good working order.

• Wear a buoyancy aid (PFD) and use the correct type of leash for the location/type of water (eg. waist leash for flowing water, straight leash for surf).

• Take a spare top in a dry bag. You can always take a layer off if you get too hot or add one if cold.

• Take water and/or a snack if you're going on a longer paddle.

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PERSONAL:

• Dress for the occasion and always be prepared for the weather to change.  

• Are you confident in your own ability (or that of people paddling with you) in the conditions ?  

• Wear sunscreen. 

• Tell someone where you're planning to go and what time you expect to be back.

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The above list is by no means exhaustive.  Further information can be found by

visiting RNLI or British Canoeing.

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