Adventure Safety: Towing and Self-Rescue for SUP Adventures

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is an incredible way to explore the water, but even the best paddlers can face challenges. Whether it's helping a friend battle the wind or assisting someone back onto their board, knowing towing and self-rescue techniques is essential for a safe and fun adventure. Here are some practical tips to keep your paddling trips safe and enjoyable.

Towing Techniques

When a paddling partner needs a hand, towing can save the day. Here are four simple methods:

1. Grab-and-Go

   • Perfect for short distances in a pinch.

   • Have your partner lie on their belly and grab onto the leash attachment on your board.

2. Leash Tow

   • Use a spare ankle leash or the towed person's leash as a makeshift tow rope.

   • Attach one end to the D-ring or handle of their board and the other end to a secure point on your board.

3. Paddle Tow

   • For quick towing, loop a paddle around the towed board’s nose and secure it to your board for short distances.

4. The Tow Line

   • Ideal for longer distances, use a dedicated tow rope (50-100 cm).

   • Securely attach the rope to the nose of the towed board and the tail of your board.

Partner Paddling: Side-by-Side Support

Sometimes, towing isn't necessary, and paddling side-by-side can do the trick. Here's how:

• Positioning: Paddle kneeling or standing next to your partner, with both boards facing the same direction.

• Paddling Strategy: Each person paddles on the outside of their board. The stronger paddler should stay on the downwind side to keep both boards on course.

This method is perfect for assisting a partner struggling against the wind without resorting to towing.

Self-Rescue and Assisting Others

Accidents happen, and knowing how to get back on a board or help someone else is crucial. Here are effective rescue techniques:

1. Stabilize and Assist

   • Paddle close and grab the center rails of your partner’s board.

   • Use your body weight to stabilize the board as your partner climbs back on.

2. T-Rescue

   • Position your board perpendicular to the person’s board to form a T-shape.

   • Hold their board steady while they pull themselves back on.

3. From the Tail

   • Grab the nose of their board, while they climb on from the tail.

   • Stabilize the board to keep it upright during the process.

4. Scoop Rescue

   • Position your board parallel to the swimmer. Use their PFD straps to help them onto your board belly-down.

   • Paddle to safety while towing their board.

5. Sling Rescue

   • Create a loop with a leash or paddle and extend it to the person in the water.

   • Use the loop to assist them while stabilizing their board.

6. Board Flip Rescue (Last Resort)

   • For incapacitated paddlers, secure their head above water, flip their board upside down, and maneuver them back onto it using your core strength and the "flip and pull" method.

   • Stabilize the board and call for help immediately if needed.

Communication and Teamwork

Clear communication is vital during towing and rescues. Here's how to stay organized:

• Clear Instructions: Speak slowly and give clear, simple directions.

• Signals: Establish pre-arranged hand or whistle signals in case of poor conditions.

• Calm and Reassuring: Stay calm to keep the person being assisted at ease.

• Team Effort: Work with other paddlers for smooth and effective operations.

Learn More

Looking to enhance your child’s paddling experience? Check out our other blogs:

• Our Summer Camp Curriculum for Ages 6-14

• What to Expect: A Day in the Life of a Camper

With these tips in your adventure toolkit, you’ll be ready to tackle challenges while keeping your paddling safe and enjoyable. Happy paddling!