Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare for the paddle.
- Select stand up paddle board and other equipment suitable for conditions, and check for safe working condition.
- Select lifejacket, as required, exposure protection swim wear or exposure suit suitable for conditions, and check for safe working condition.
- Interpret planned course from activity plans and maps to assist in following the course.
- Select 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 paddlers.
- Fit and adjust exposure protection wear and lifejacket, as required, to ensure comfort and safety.
- Paddle and manoeuvre stand up paddle board in sheltered coastal waters.
- 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, leans and combinations.
- 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.
- Monitor party formation, paddling pace and space between boards and make required adjustments.
- Land and dismount paddle board at the shore while maintaining stability.
- Rescue self in deep water.
- Perform deep water rescues in sheltered coastal waters.
- 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.