Safety campaign: Four associations publish joint SUP rules

Several million people in Germany regularly use lakes, rivers and coastal waters for stand-up paddling. With the start of the new swimming season, safety on the water takes centre stage alongside recreational fun. The German Life Saving Association, the German Red Cross Water Rescue Service, the German Canoeing Association and the Association of German Water Sports Schools have joined forces under the motto "Avoiding accidents together". The four organisations are developing practical recommendations for greater safety in stand-up paddling. They are pooling their many years of experience from training, water sports practice and rescue operations. The result is new SUP rules to help paddlers recognise dangers early on and avoid risks on the water.
All about Right of way rules can also be found here.

Underestimated dangers on the water

Stand-up paddling is considered comparatively easy to learn and gives many people a feeling of freedom and relaxation on the water. At the same time, external conditions are often underestimated. Wind, sudden thunderstorms, currents, heavy shipping traffic or strong waves can put even experienced water sports enthusiasts in dangerous situations. Intense sunlight or a lack of knowledge of the rules of the waterways also significantly increase the risk of accidents. For years, the participating organisations have observed that many missions and rescue operations are due to misjudgements or a lack of preparation. The aim of the joint initiative is to sensitise people to potential dangers at an early stage and at the same time provide them with specific recommendations for action.

Comprehensible presentation for all skill levels

The new SUP rules deliberately focus on a simple and easy-to-understand presentation. Meaningful illustrations draw attention to important safety aspects and convey the key information at a glance. The presentation is intended to reach both beginners and experienced paddlers. The safety rules are visible where water sports enthusiasts can obtain information directly: at DLRG and Wasserwacht lifeguard stations, in boathouses and training centres of the German Canoe Association and at VDWS stations and schools. The organisations also disseminate the recommendations via press work, events and social media in order to reach as many people as possible.

Shared responsibility for safe water sports

The participating organisations share the common goal of making water sports safer and at the same time raising awareness of the need to treat nature and water responsibly. Safety on the water starts even before you get on the SUP board - with good preparation, consideration and knowledge of possible dangers. With the new SUP rules, the German Canoe Association, the German Life Saving Association, the German Red Cross Water Rescue Service and the Association of German Water Sports Schools are sending out a joint signal in favour of greater safety, prevention and responsible water sports in Germany.