Stand up paddle boarding is one of the fastest growing activities in the world, and with good reason: it's a blast! However, as with all water-based activities, 'safety first' is a good motto to keep in mind. Particularly when it comes to your kids. Here are a few key safety points to remember, so that you and your kids can get the most out of your paddle boarding and feel safe while doing so.

SUP safety is an important topic that unfortunately doesn't get the coverage it rightfully deserves. As our sport has exploded in popularity, it's attracted plenty of newcomers who have little or no experience when it comes to water safety. Due to this fact, it's absolutely critical that we all do our part to educate new paddlers on basic paddling safety practices.

As a SUP coach or paddling in a group, at some point we may need to resort to towing. This may happen if a paddler becomes tired, equipment failure or you feel the need to train with some extra drag. Towing can be used to help or position group members as well as in a rescue situation.

There’s a huge debate going on in the SUP world about whether or not paddlers should wear a leash and/or a PFD. One or the other? Both? The video here showcases the perfect example of why paddle boarders must always wear a leash, especially during a downwinder. The video shows just how fast your board can get away from you and leave you stranded out in the middle of the ocean with nothing to keep you afloat.

While stand up paddle boarding is generally regarded as a very safe activity, there are some basic safety measures that should be practiced each and every time you paddle out. It's all too easy to fall into the trap of thinking that one is above these practices (especially when it comes to experienced paddlers), but nothing could be further from the truth.