What’s SUP?!

What’s SUP?!

Stand up paddle-boarding (SUP) is the latest sport to hit the water and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. First of all it’s great fun, you don’t need loads of surf to get out on the water and you don’t have to be super fit either to give it a go – what’s not to love! If that sounds a little too adventurous why not take a scenic river trip with Shropshire Raft Tours, starting in the heart of the Ironbridge Gorge – the 1 hour long trip will take you along the River Severn where you’ll be able to spot many local landmarks such as the world’s first Iron Bridge, The Rodgers Family Coracle Shed, The Narrows, Bedlam Furnaces and an abundance of birds and wildlife along the way finishing above the Jackfield Rapids.

If you are looking for a self-hire experience, try canoe, kayak, mini raft, new coracle hire, mega SUP hire which is also available from Ironbridge with Shropshire Raft Tours. Try out the popular mini-raft hire on a beautiful stretch of river lasting 2 ½ – 3 ½ hours. An easy paddle in an extremely stable boat which is popular with families.
www.shropshirereafttours.co.uk

 

Safety first. Understanding the risks of water danger
Around half of accidental drownings happen when people didn’t even intend to go in
the water and with staycations on the rise, Telford’s lakes, pools and the River Severn
are likely to see record visitors this year.

Lots of people will be making the most of the opportunities in a safe way, however, it
can be very tempting to use the waterways as a way to cool off on a hot day, by jumping into seemingly harmless, refreshing water. Sadly, tragedies and accidents do happen. That’s why we have worked with The Royal Life Saving Society UK to pull these simple water safety tips together:

Follow the Water Safety Code
It’s short, it’s simple and it could save your life.

Keep away from the edge
Year-round, the water’s edge can be a slippy, boggy and uneven place to be, keep back from the edge so you don’t accidentally fall in.

Look out for the lifesavers
Before you dip your toe in the water, look out for where the lifeguards are. If there aren’t any, read any signs telling you about the water. Look out for throwlines or lifesaving buoys they all come with instructions, are easy to use and will help save a life in an emergency.

Control your dog

Don’t go in after your dog, it might mean that both of you will need rescuing. Find
somewhere where the dog can climb out and call the dog to you.
Know your hidden hazards sudden changes in depth, debris, pollution and temperature – all things you can’t see that can cause trouble if you suddenly find yourself in the water.

Paddle, don’t plunge
The UK’s water temperature is still really cold. Even on the hottest days, cold water
shock can affect anyone and it will literally take your breath away, leaving you unable to get to safety alone.

For more tips and advice on how you and your family can enjoy water safely this year,
at home or abroad, why not download the FREE digital water safety toolkit from the
Royal Life Saving Society UK by visiting their website www.rlss.org.uk