Paddlesports Safety Guidance
Heading down to the coast to go canoeing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding is a great way to have fun and stay active.
But, if you're not careful, it's a lot easier to get into trouble in the water than you might think. Conditions can change quickly and, if you're not prepared, you can easily get caught out.
We've produced some guidance to help keep you safe while paddling in Lymington Harbour and to help you minimise your impact on birds and local wildlife.
In 2023 Bird Aware Solent launched a campaign Watersports with Wildlife including recommendations for wildlife friendly paddle routes.
The RNLI have also created safety guidance for paddle sports so you can prepare yourself properly for the challenges of your chosen activity.
British Canoeing have created a new resource - Go Paddling Safety Information - aimed at Stand Up Paddlers.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency and RNLI also urge kayak owners and other water sports enthusiasts, to clearly label their property so that in the event you are parted and your kayak/canoe/stand up paddleboard is found, the emergency services can quickly establish if you are safe.
Watersports labels can be ordered free online through the MCA if people don’t want to use indelible ink. There are also labels available free from the RNLI Lymington Lifeboat Shop and the Lymington Harbour Office.
For more information on staying safe you can visit the RNLI's Safety Page.
Photo credit: Jo Styles
