The Paddlesport Safety and Rescue Award is a practical, hands-on course designed to equip paddlers with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to stay safe on the water and assist others in distress. Suitable for paddlers of all craft types — including canoes, kayaks, sit-on-tops, and stand-up paddleboards — the award focuses on preventing incidents and responding effectively when things go wrong in sheltered water environments. Participants learn key safety principles, personal survival techniques, and simple, effective rescue methods. The award is administered by Paddle UK (or its home nation associations: Paddle Wales, Paddle Scotland, or Paddle Northern Ireland), and awarded by the British Canoeing Awarding Body, the governing body for paddlesport in the UK. It provides a valuable foundation for anyone looking to paddle responsibly or progress towards coaching and leadership qualifications.
The Paddlesport Safety and Rescue Award course content is designed to equip paddlers with practical skills to manage safety and respond to common paddling incidents in sheltered water environments. The course covers essential topics such as personal safety and equipment checks, strategies for preventing problems, and techniques for self-rescue and rescuing others. Participants learn how to assist swimmers and recover a variety of craft, including canoes, kayaks, sit-on-tops, and stand-up paddleboards, using simple, effective methods. The training also explores risk management, communication in emergency situations, and decision-making to ensure safe paddling practices. Emphasis is placed on developing confidence and the ability to apply rescue skills in real-life scenarios, helping paddlers feel prepared for a range of situations on the water.
Duration: 1-day training course
Location: CCAT Capel Curig, Snowdonia National Park
CCAT Halton near Lancaster, Lake District & Yorkshire Dales National Park
Course fee: £40
Eligibility: CFAVs
Prerequisites There are no formal prerequisites for the course.
Course Certification: British Canoeing Awarding Body qualifications are widely recognised throughout the UK and show others that you have reached a nationally accredited standard recognised by:
- Health and Safety Executive (UK)
- Health and Safety Authority (Republic of Ireland)
- Adventurous Activities Licensing Authority (UK)
- Coaching Ireland
- Ofqual (England)
- SQA (Scotland)
Please speak to your detachment or contingent commander if you are interested in attending this course.