SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon State Marine Board is urging people who recreate on stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) atop moving water (primarily rivers) to always wear a life jacket – and to never wear a Velcro ankle or leg leash that’s designed for general flatwater use or the surf zone.
“There’s an emerging trend when we look at the causes for fatalities in recent years, where a person, otherwise well-outfitted, died because their leash to the SUP became entangled in brush or other debris on area rivers,” said Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board.
“Most ankle leashes used by SUP users are not designed for quick release. If you get it tangled on rocks or downed trees, the leash can make escape nearly impossible,” Paulsen added in Tuesday’s news release, which continues in full below:…