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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare for the paddle.
   • Select paddle board, leash and other equipment suitable for conditions and check for safe working condition.
   • Select exposure protection swim wear or exposure suit suitable for conditions; fit and adjust to ensure comfort and safety.
   • Select a suitable area for paddle boarding activities according to current conditions.
   • Confirm activity safety and emergency response procedures to ensure compliance during activities.
   • Confirm protocols for communications between party members and with others.
2. Paddle and manoeuvre stand up paddle board on flatwater.
   • Select a safe location to enter the water, propel and mount board while maintaining balance and stability.
   • Control direction of paddle board forward, in reverse and when turning, using a range of appropriate strokes and leans.
   • Maintain appropriate posture, stance and stroke technique to efficiently paddle the board.
   • Establish and maintain an appropriate paddling rhythm and pace to minimise fatigue, strain and injury.
   • Safely approach, and negotiate obstacles and hazards to minimise risk of injury.
   • Maintain visual contact and effective communication with party members throughout all activities, and maintain party formation as required.
   • Land and dismount paddle board at the shore while maintaining stability.
3. Rescue self in deep water.
   • Use techniques to maintain safety of self and others in the event of a dismount.
   • Flip paddle board when in deep water and remount.
   • Manoeuvre the paddle and board to shore or to rescue craft when unable to remount.
   • Maintain stability in water when separated from paddle board and return to shore.
4. Perform deep water rescues in flatwater conditions.
   • Identify immediate hazards, assess risks and negotiate to avoid injury to self and others.
   • Select and use other leaders or party members, equipment and rescue techniques appropriate to situation.
   • Manoeuvre own board to rescuee, form a raft up as required, and assume a position that enables the rescue.
   • Provide clear and concise instructions to rescuee and others assisting.
   • Assist rescuee to flip and remount their board.
   • Assess ability of rescuee to continue and tow to nearest safe landing, as required.