05/29/2026
If you're heading onto the lake without a lifejacket, without checking conditions, or while impaired, you're putting yourself and others at risk. Every year, emergency crews respond to incidents on the lake involving folks with stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) who underestimate the water or weather, overestimate their abilities, or ignore basic safety precautions. Drowning can happen faster and quieter than most people realize, so before heading out on your SUP, the want to remind paddlers:
🛟 it is MANDATORY to either wear a personal flotation device (PFD) with a whistle OR carry a PFD, whistle, and floating throw rope on board (Transport Canada supports leash use but NOT as a replacement for lifejackets and PFD's)
🛟 inflatable PFD's are prohibited for people who are under 16 years of age
🛟 try to paddle with a partner and always let someone know where you're going
🛟 pay attention to marked swim lines and floating barriers that indicate deep water
🛟 beware of other lake traffic including boats and Sea-Doos
🛟 monitor for weather changes - winds can change rapidly and can easily blow a SUP off course
🛟 stay close to shore, especially if you are inexperienced or there's windy conditions
Remember, a paddleboard is NOT just a pool floatie - it's a personal watercraft and should be treated with the same level of responsibility as any other vessel. Paddleboarding is meant to be fun, but the risks are real, so please make smart choices to keep yourself and everyone around you safe and sound.
