SUP Risk Management & Safety

Jose H. Gonzalez, Ed.D.REI Outdoor Programs Market Manager

ACA-Stand Up Paddleboarding Instructor Trainer

http://worldpaddleassociation.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/as_surf_sup_crash_576.jpg

Outline

1. Introduction2. Before You Go3. Personal & Safety

Equipment4. Towing Systems5. Rules of the Road6. Signals

Introduction

• Stand-up paddleboards (SUP) are now no different than vessels in the eyes of the U.S. Coast Guard (Surfline, 2008)

Introduction (2)

When outside surf or swim zones or bathing areas SUP’s are required to carry a:1. Lifejacket 2. Whistle 3. Flashlight, if out after

dark

Personal abilities

• Beginner• Intermediate• Expert

• Flat water• Surfing• River

Environmental conditions• Managing the Surf Zone– Look for the channel– Time the waves– Be ready to bail– Be aware of other SUPers or surfers

espn.go.com

Environmental conditions

Tides and Tidal Flow1. Is there a rip current?2. What is the tide

doing? Ebb? Flow?3. Will the water current

be with or against you?

4. Do you need shoes for the low tide on the way back?

http://youtu.be/wH_yg4hqoW8

Environmental conditions

Wind1. Are you going

with or against the wind?

2. Are you prepared to finish the last miles kneeling?

www.mountwashington.org

Personal & Safety equipment

• Water• Layers• Extra paddle• Hypothermia kit• Knife• Repair Kit• Navigation tools• Extra food• Towing system• Communication (VHF)

SUP towing systems#1

SUP towing systems#1

SUP Towing systems #2

SUP Towing systems #2

SUP Towing Systems#3

Rules of the road & boat traffic

Rules for SUP/Kayaks1. Be Aware 2. See and Be Seen 3. Law of Gross Tonnage

(Use Common Sense) 4. Know the Rights of

Passage 5. Know How to Avoid

Collisions

“New Reels Catch Fish So Purchase Some”

1. Not Under Command2. Restricted Ability to

Maneuver3. Constrained by Draft4. Fishing5. Sailing vessel 6. Power driven vessel7. Seaplane

Paddle Signals

www.npmb.com

Questions?

• Who is Ebb and Flow?• What are 3 required

items every SUP must carry with them?