If you are planning to head out on the waters and enjoy an afternoon of paddleboarding, you may be in for a great time – or you could end up involved in a terrible drowning accident. At Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas we want to prevent the latter. Keep reading to learn five things that can help make you safer next time you hit the paddleboard. If you have already been involved in this type of accident, or have lost a loved one in a deadly drowning accident, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
- Wearing a Life Jacket Also called life preservers or personal flotation devices, life jackets are the most important piece of gear for any type of water-related activity or sport. You can choose from many sizes, styles, and models but choose one that has an approval number from the U.S. Coast Guard. Many people who paddleboard choose Type II vests, also known as near-shore buoyant vests. They turn a person who is unconscious in the water face up so they can breathe. They are not as bulky and are more comfortable than other options.
- Leashes Leashes are not just for pets – they can save lives during paddleboard excursions. They connect the paddler to their board so that if the rider is thrown from their equipment, they are still attached to and can find it. Even a gentle breeze can move the board away from the rider in just a few seconds. The leash should be about a foot longer than the board is.
- Bring a Whistle The wildlife commission recommends that paddlers bring some type of device that makes a sound, such as a horn or whistle, and that can be heard for one-half mile. This allows them to make their position known if they are injured.
- Always Have a Flashlight If you are planning to paddleboard at night or when there is limited visibility, a flashlight is a good idea. Even if you are not planning to paddle during these times, you do not know when visibility could decrease so it is always a good idea to have one on hand.
- Do Not Go Out Alone Using the buddy system is important in a number of ways. First, if there is someone else there then someone else can warn you of upcoming hazards. In the event you are overtaken by a hazard or other issue, having another person there means a better chance of getting the help you need.
Paddleboarding can be a fun sport but it is important to take every necessary safety precaution. If you have been participating in a water activity or sport and been injured, you may have grounds for a personal injury case. Contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 to learn more.
