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 one's life at risk, it is best if the flood occurs without a current. This reduces the risk of being swept away and the associated dangers.

The advantages

The main advantage of a paddleboard is its ease of setup. In very little time, less than 5 minutes, your paddleboard is ready to be launched. The second advantage is its lightness and maneuverability. It can easily navigate through waterways and avoid obstacles.

It therefore allows you to easily reach areas inaccessible on foot with just a few paddle strokes. However, ideally you should have the most stable paddleboard possible (i.e., one with a bit of width) to stay steady and avoid falling into the water.

If you live in a high-risk flood zone, it's wise to anticipate potential problems by moving as many items as possible to the upper floor of your house. Also, stay informed and consider contacting your local council for technical information if needed.

Let's say you want to buy a paddleboard to make getting around easier. In that case, we recommend choosing a high-quality board with a double-layered deck and hull. Why? Because unlike lakes or the sea, you'll be paddling over roads, embankments, sidewalks, and other obstacles. Generally, during floods, the water isn't clear, meaning you can't see what's underneath your board. Having a sturdy and stable board is essential to avoid damage if you hit an underwater obstacle.

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

1. Materials and PVC layers: A paddleboard is handmade, and its strength depends on the number of PVC layers used. A reinforced paddleboard has a double layer and three layers on the rails. This construction makes it resistant to abrasion, impacts, and potential shattering upon 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 narrow, the board will glide better but will be less stable.
   • Construction : Rigidity plays a crucial role in stability. A reinforced paddleboard is more stable because it is more rigid.

So if you're looking for a stable paddleboard, follow the link below. This high-end range features reinforced paddleboards that offer excellent stability.

In the context of flooding, a solid aluminum paddle will do the job perfectly well; there is no need to own an ultra-light paddle.

If you plan to go paddleboarding 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 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. Make sure the rope is long enough to be able to attach it to a post or throw it a few meters if needed.

1. Navigation technique:
   • Don't look for speed, but rather efficiency to save energy.
   • Choose a paddleboard of approximately 10'6" x 32" which will be both stable and relatively short, making maneuvering easier. It's 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 itinerary and establish a communication plan (call time, or call as soon as you arrive…) so you're not unable to communicate in case of danger or stress. Remember to have a waterproof phone or put it in a waterproof bag.
   • Anticipate the possibility that you may need to help others in difficulty . A stable paddleboard is therefore essential in this context.

Remember that safety should always be your priority when paddleboarding during floods.