Using your paddleboard in case of flooding: Tips and precautions

An inflatable paddleboard is a watercraft that can be used for transportation during floods. However, to avoid putting your life in danger, it is preferable for floods to occur without current. This way, the risks of being swept away by the current and associated dangers are reduced.

Advantages

The main advantage of a paddleboard is its quick setup. In less than 5 minutes, your paddleboard is ready to be launched. The second advantage is the lightness and maneuverability of a paddleboard. It can navigate everywhere without any problem, thus avoiding all obstacles in the water.

It therefore makes it easy to connect areas inaccessible on foot with a few strokes of the paddle. However, it is ideal to have the most stable paddleboard possible (i.e., with a bit of width) to ensure stability and avoid falling into the water.

If you live in an area at high risk of flooding, it is wise to anticipate potential problems by moving as many items as possible to the upper floor of your house. Additionally, stay informed and consider contacting your local council for technical information if necessary.

Suppose one day you decide to buy a paddleboard to facilitate your movements. In that case, we recommend choosing a high-quality paddleboard with a double skin on the deck and hull. Why? Because unlike lakes or the sea, you will need to navigate over roads, embankments, sidewalks, and other obstacles. Generally, during floods, the water is not transparent, meaning you cannot see what is beneath your paddleboard. Having a robust and stable paddleboard is essential to avoid any damage in case of contact with an underwater obstacle.

A reinforced paddleboard is more than three times stronger than a budget paddleboard. To better understand, let’s explore the technical details:

1. Materials and PVC layers: A paddleboard is handmade, and its robustness depends on the number of PVC layers used. A reinforced paddleboard has a double skin and three layers on the rails. This construction makes it resistant to abrasion, impacts, and potential ruptures in case of contact with a blunt object.
2. Board Stability:
   • Board Width: A wide board, measuring 31 inches or more, is considered wide and stable.
   • Board Shape: If the tail of the board is wide enough, it will offer better stability. Conversely, if the tail is rather thin, the board will glide better but will be less stable.
   • Construction: Rigidity plays an essential role in stability. A reinforced paddleboard is more stable because it is more rigid.

So, if you are looking for a stable paddleboard, follow the link below. This high-end range consists of reinforced paddleboards that offer great stability.

In the context of floods, a sturdy aluminum paddle will be perfectly sufficient; there's no need for an ultra-light paddle.

If you plan to use a paddleboard during floods, here are some safety tips to follow:

1. Choose your route wisely: Prioritize your safety. Before setting off, map out your route and analyze any potential problems you might encounter, such as strong currents or dangerous areas.
2. Equip yourself properly:

Wear a life jacket and a wetsuit with a rescue rope attached to the front of the paddleboard. Ensure the rope is long enough to attach it to a pole or throw it a few meters if needed.

1. Navigation technique:
   • Don't aim for speed, but rather efficiency to conserve energy.
   • Opt for a paddleboard of approximately 10'6″ x 32″ which will be both stable and relatively short, thus facilitating maneuvers. It is easier to turn with a medium-sized paddleboard compared to a 12-foot or longer model.
2. Communication and anticipation:
   • Inform your loved ones of your route and set up a communication process (call time, or call as soon as you arrive, etc.) so you are not unable to communicate in case of danger or stress. Be sure to have a waterproof phone or put it in a waterproof bag.
   • Anticipate that you may need to help other people in difficulty. A stable paddleboard is therefore essential in this context.

Remember that safety must always be your priority when moving around on a paddleboard during floods.