Paddle boards come with safety in mind
When heading out on the water this summer, remember that stand-up paddleboarders in Wisconsin, are required to have wearable life jackets of the appropriate sizes for each on board. Wearing a life jacket makes smart safety sense for all paddlers, regardless of age or the law of the water.
U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations require each paddler age 12 and younger, to wear their correct-size life jacket when on federally controlled waters. In Wisconsin, federal waters include Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Green Bay, Mississippi River and the St. Croix River.
While state law only requires the appropriate-size, wearable life jacket be on board with each paddler, the easiest way to carry the life-saving device, is to wear it. DNR conservation wardens will check paddlers for the required lifejackets.
An accident can happen without a warning. The majority of people who drown know how to swim, but become incapacitated in the water. Learn more about finding the right life jacket on the DNR website.
The following are recommended paddling safety tips:
• Stay sober.
• Take a stand-up paddleboarding safety course through the American Canoe Association.
• Paddle with a pal, and let a third party know the destination and return time.
• Check the weather and know the wind direction.
• Match the outing with individual skills. Steer clear of waterbodies with lots of traffic, as waves will make for a bumpy, possible dangerous outing.
• Get a dry bag for energy bars, sunscreen, first-aid items, waterproof flashlight and a waterproof holder for a cell phone.
• Wear a whistle.
• Wear an ankle leash, in the event of falling off the board.
