PLOT Your Paddle: Paddle Boarding Safety For Rivers & Estuaries

What is PLOT?

PLOT stands for:

• P = Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
• L = Leash
• O = Obstructions ( / Offshore Winds)
• T = Telephone

Let’s break down what each part of PLOT means – and how to use it on every trip:

P = Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

It’s essential to wear a personal flotation device. As a minimum paddle boarding safety requirement, you should wear a 50N buoyancy aid. Wearing a buoyancy aid for paddle boarding in rivers and estuaries will give you the essential support that you need if you end up in the water. This is important, even for experienced paddle boarders.

Tip: Look for a PFD that allows full arm movement and includes secure storage for essentials like your phone or whistle.

L = Leash

Always consider the best SUP Leash based on the water conditions. The leash is what ensures you don’t get separated from your board. Where there is a flow from a river or tide, it is important you have a waist leash you can quickly release if required. When paddling in rivers and estuaries you’ll need to convert your ankle leash using a SUP quick release waist belt or waist belt leash. This setup ensures that you can detach yourself from the board quickly from the waist in an emergency when you cannot reach your ankle. 

Tip: Practise releasing your waist leash before you head out – in an emergency, muscle memory matters.

O = Obstructions

A key part of paddle boarding safety is considering potential hazards around you. When paddling through inland waterways, it’s important to stay at least two board lengths away from moored boats, bridge pillars and other obstructions. Flowing water can push you off track more quickly than calm waters and so it’s good practice to stay conscious of your positioning as you paddle.

When paddling at tidal locations don't forget to check the tide times for the launch site to ensure you can back safely.

One of the biggest causes of SUP rescues is offshore winds – even light wind can carry you quickly away from shore. Always check the forecast before you paddle, and avoid launching in offshore wind conditions unless you’re highly experienced and prepared to return upwind.

Tip: Study your route ahead of time using satellite maps or local guides to identify potential hazards and exit points.

T = Telephone

The final part of PLOT is telephone. Consider your phone another essential item of SUP safety equipment to bring with you on all paddles. The easiest way to carry your phone when paddling in rivers and estuaries is by placing it in a water resistant pouch and keeping it inside your buoyancy aid. You could also keep it in something like the Waterproof Dry Pouch, which is designed to keep its contents dry, safe, and secure. Before you set off, make sure to tell people where you are going and what time you plan to be back. Remember to keep them updated if you get delayed for any reason - This will ensure they don’t raise the alarm unnecessarily.

Tip: Save emergency contact numbers and your What3Words location app on your phone before heading out.

Final Thoughts: PLOT Your Paddle, Every Time

Rivers and estuaries offer stunning routes and peaceful paddles — but preparation is key. By remembering to PLOT your paddle, you’ll be ready for whatever the water throws your way.

Always paddle within your limits. If you’re new to SUP or tackling flowing water for the first time, consider taking a lesson. Avoid paddling alone, and make sure to tell someone where you're going and when you plan to return.

Stay safe. Stay smart. And enjoy the paddle.

• Explore Our SUP Safety Gear
• Find the Right Kit for Your Adventure
• Watch our Inland Waterway Safety Video