Safety Guide

This is a guide only.  Cotswold Paddleboard Company will not be held responsible for the safety of Hirers. Hirers should consult our Terms & Conditions for further clarification. 

1. Wear personal flotation devices

We always recommend the use of a Personal Flotation Device PFD or Life Jacket when using our Paddleboards and Kayaks.  For people who are able to swim we recommend at least a 50 Newton buoyancy Aid or life belt. For weak swimmers, and young children we recommend Life Jackets of at least 100 Newtons. We do not recommend our paddleboards or Kayaks for non-swimmers. 

2. Always wear the leash 

If you fall off your board the first thing you will want to do is retrieve your paddle (but it’s always best to try to hold on to it!). In order not to get separated from your board, ALWAYS WEAR THE LEASH ROUND YOUR LOWER LEG.

3. Always supervise youngsters

As parents ourselves, we feel that all people under 18 years should be supervised when on the water in all conditions.

4. Follow any local rules and advice

Water can be unpredictable and it is always advisable to check with the local sources of information on water safety in the area before you take to the water. For example, rivers are rated by the flow and depending on the river, some craft are not allowed on the water during particular flow rates. Always take a cautious approach.

5. Tell someone where you are going

Always tell someone land based about a trip you intend to take with times and vicinity and report to them when you are back safely.

6.Take a mobile phone

If you can, take a charged mobile phone in a sealed dry bag in case of an emergency.

7. Wear appropriate clothing when paddleboarding

Do not wear jeans or other water-logging clothes. Do not wear wellington boots, waders, heavy waterproofs.  If it’s cold, wear a wetsuit.

8. Plan your journey

Never paddle in the dark and know your limitations.

9. River Paddling

If paddling on a river, do not go through locks and use the “Portage” areas, you MUST get out and carry your boards around. Avoid the tops and bottoms of all weirs.

10. Protect yourself from the sun

The sun reflects off the water intensifying its strength, cover up, wear sunscreen, a hat and decent sun glasses (even when it does not seem to be very sunny).

11. Keep hydrated and your energy up

Take water and snacks with you if you are paddling any distance.

12.  Paddle in pairs

We strongly recommend that you buddy with another board or another vessel, if you are paddling any distance.

13. Do not use faulty equipment

Whilst we always check our kit before it goes out, things can fail. If you have any doubts, do not use it. Contact us and we will do our best to sort any problems out as quickly as possible.