Safety first

I thoroughly enjoyed Patrick’s articles involving paddling on rivers but as a Landy-loving keen paddler I have to point out that when canoeing, kayaking or paddle boarding, safety largely relies on everyone using a personal flfloatation device (PFD).

With staycations being the order of the day, lots of Brits, with absolutely no training or experience, are buying craft and taking their families on the rivers. Every year people already lose their lives while doing these activities, even on sedate rivers like the Nene. British Canoeing recommends wearing a PFD on any moving water.

You really need to set a good example and always wear one. Parents need to check that young children’s PFD has a leg strap to stop them sliding out.

Baz Perry

Patrick replies: Baz thanks for the reality check. I promise to always wear a PFD while out on the water in the future. I always make sure my son has one on and yes it does have the leg strap to prevent it sliding off.