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MOUNTAINLIFEBLUEMOUNTAINS
SUMMER2016
1
Never go SUP snorkelling alone.
That being said, large groups
tend tomake more distractions and increase the hazards. Best to
keep your group numbers down. Groups of three work very well, with
two in the water at a time, and one on watch.
2
Assuming you and your partner have basic SUP and snorkelling
skills, you will
knowwhat safety equipment is mandatory
(Check
tc.gc.ca, Safe Boating Guide). Be sure to follow all regulations that
apply to your location. Toss in an extra throwbag with 50 feet of
buoyant line, a brightly coloured buoy, and an anchor.
3
Tie your anchor to the end of your line before you depart from
shore
and secure both to your board before you start to paddle
out. Lower the anchor in a slow controlled fashion while lying on
your belly. Do not let your anchor come into contact with features
such as shipwrecks or geologic formations. Guide it down until you
feel the bottom.
4
Raft your boards together
. You can do this with extra ties between
deck lashings and leash loop attachments. Or you can use a cam
strapwrapped all the way around the centre of the two boards.
5
Keep organized
on deck and secure any loose items before you
enter the water, including your lifejackets and paddle.
6
Wear a wetsuit
if cold is an issue. On Georgian Bay most likely
it will be. Also bring a re-warming kit equipped with dry clothing
layers easily accessed during the excursion.
7
Select your site with your group’s abilities inmind
, as well as
the conditions of the day. Do not go pitching your anchor into
murky depths without knowledge of what is below you. Professional
deep-water freedivers bring large support teams and have built up
their knowledge of the inherent risks involved. Best to start SUP
snorkelling with shallow-water drills in protected waters where you
can dial in your approach and raft-systems. Practice safe snorkel use
and once again, seek instruction if you’re unsure what that entails.
8
Safety, safety… safety
. Anytime you’re diving with use of ropes,
either attached to anchors or as secure lines, always be aware of
them. Ropes can become deadly snakes in the water. Always carry a
knife to cut the rope quickly if you need to. Afinal piece of advice for
the beginner and adept alike: Stay aware of the world around you.
Getting lost in the moment is a natural effect of SUP snorkelling; boat
traffic and changing weather are two reasons to stay observant. After
you exit the water and re-warm yourself, equip yourself once again
for the paddle in, secure all loose ends, and glide on.
HOWTOPREPAREFORASUPSNORKEL
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