Stand-up paddleboards have safety equipment requirements

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) issued a reminder today about the use and popularity of Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). The vessels are fun, easy-to-use and have equipment requirements, not unlike other vessels.

The use of SUPs has exploded in Idaho over the past few years. With this increase in popularity more people than ever are participating in this recreational activity.

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation would like to take this opportunity to remind users that SUPs are considered to be a vessel when used outside a marked swimming area, and that state law applies for safety equipment.

All SUPs need to have a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket on board and a sound producing device such as a whistle according to Dave Dahms, state boating law administrator. “In addition, all SUPs regardless of size and construction must display the Idaho Invasive Species Sticker”, said Dahms.

In 2008 the U.S. Coast Guard determined that paddleboards are considered to be a vessel when used outside a swimming, surfing or bathing area and are therefore subject to applicable regulations.

Dahms also notes that SUP users are subject to Idaho’s life jacket law for kids, which requires all kids 14 years of age and under to wear a life jacket on a vessel that is less than 19 feet or less, when underway.

Boaters that do not have safety equipment may be subject to a $99 fine from a county marine deputy.

In addition, failure to display the Idaho Invasive Species Sticker could result in a $72 fine.

SUP users are also subject to arrest for being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Idaho has one documented SUP boating fatality and Dahms notes that SUP fatalities are on the rise across the country, including four fatalities during three separate incidents during the weekend of June 10-12, 2016.

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation encourages all SUP enthusiasts to wear a life jacket while paddleboarding to ensure personal safety.

While air temperatures may be in the 80s or 90s, water temperatures are still in the 50s in many water bodies across the state, making cold water a danger to everyone. Paddleboarders (and all boaters) can become quickly incapacitated when entering cold water and maybe not able to re-board without a life jacket.