PADDLE SAFER
The Paddle Safer course is designed for anyone new to paddling, or relatively inexperienced, wanting to gain knowledge and raise their awareness of paddling safely in a sheltered water environment, in or on the craft that they paddle.
This practical course gives you top tips and considerations to support you to paddle safer. Over two hours, you will learn how to choose appropriate equipment and develop an understanding of the factors which affect your paddling, such as the environment. You will also develop your knowledge, experience and ability to plan your paddles and trips. It will highlight what to expect and look out for, based on the places you paddle. You will practise a range of rescue techniques, and learn how to support each other and explore possible solutions to common mishaps.
It is for anyone of any age who wants to develop their awareness and skills on the water. You do not need any previous experience to sign up for the Paddle Safer course - just an interest in learning! You can use any craft, including kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, sit on tops and inflatables.
If you are interested in a more in-depth course on safety when using a stand up paddleboard (SUP) specifically, have a look at the 4 hour
SUP Safer course.
Course Content
The 2 hour course will cover the following topics:
- Equipment: everything you need to know to physically get yourself on the water, including the clothing and types of equipment you’ll need, as well as any additional safety equipment you could consider.
- Environment: you will observe the sheltered water environment and discuss the places you usually paddle, as well as what to look out for with the changing weather forecast.
- Planning: learn to plan your journey, with top tips around what to expect and look out for, considering your experience and ability.
- Rescues: how to stay safe and make the most out of your paddling session, learning practical solutions if you get into difficulty, plus how to support each other and call for help.
Paddle Safer Overview
Minimum Age
Open to all ages.
Duration
2 hours.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites.
eLearning
To deliver the course, Instructors, Coaches, Leaders and Guides can complete the Provider eLearning.
Course Documents
View the associated documents for the course, please click here.
Registration
No registration needed.
Become a Provider
Any British Canoeing Awarding Body Instructor, Coach, Leader or Guide can deliver the Paddle Safer course.
All aspirant Providers will need to complete the Paddle Safer Provider eLearning package before delivering the course, as well as remaining current with valid first aid, safeguarding training and up to date CPD.
The eLearning provides guidance and structure on the ethos and delivery of the course, as well as how to certificate participants. Each module has a session guide with linked resources. If you’re also a
Paddle Awards Provider, you can offer dual certification of the Paddle Safer and Paddle Discover Award.
