Safety

Beginner safety advice hub

Start with the key decisions, then follow the links to full guidance from recognised safety bodies.

Decision sequence

Start before checkout, not at the water.

Before you buy

Check that the seller explains buoyancy aids or PFDs, how to call for help, leash choice, weather limits, cold water, and local conditions before you reach checkout.

Before you go

Choose a suitable place, check conditions, tell someone your plan, and carry a phone or calling device on your person, not only inside a bag on the craft.

On the water

Wear a correctly fitted buoyancy aid or suitable flotation equipment, stay within your ability, and turn back early if wind, flow, cold, or visibility changes.

If something goes wrong

Call for help early and follow recognised emergency guidance for the water you are on, including guidance about whether to stay with your craft.

This page is a starting point, not a substitute for instruction, local knowledge, or full advice from recognised safety bodies. External guidance links were checked on 2026-07-10; always confirm the latest advice directly with the source.

Recognised guidance