Paddlesport is an adventurous activity with inherent risks. While we strive for an inclusive environment, recent data from Paddle UK incident reports shows a rise in incidents where underlying or acute medical conditions have been a contributing factor.

Being on the water introduces unique challenges. Preparation is not about excluding participants; it is about ensuring that if a medical event occurs then the individual, the club, event organisers, group organisers/leaders and peers are equipped to manage it safely.

Preparing for Medical Conditions

Medical history is a private and sensitive topic. However, disclosing your condition is a vital safety step if you plan on paddling. Sharing information with your paddling partners or the person responsible for the session ensures that “hidden” risks are known before they become emergencies.

Pre-Paddle Consultation

If you have a medical condition, then having a brief and honest conversation with those you plan on paddling with can help.

Focus on:

• Early Signs: What do the “warning signs” look like for you?
• Potential Issues: What is the most likely complication during physical exertion?
• Recovery Steps: What specific actions should the group take to support your recovery?

Professional Advice and Planning

• Medical Sign-off: Always consult a healthcare professional to ensure the specific intensity and environment of your chosen activity (e.g., whitewater or intense activity) is appropriate for your health status.
• Pre-Plan Trips: Use the planning phase to identify “egress points” (places to leave the water) in case a condition worsens and you need to cut the trip short.
• Worst-Case Scenarios: Discuss the “what ifs.” Taking precautionary steps for a worst-case scenario (such as a loss of consciousness or seizure) ensures the group isn’t reacting with panic.

Group Leaders and Organisers

• Information Gathering: It is the responsibility of leaders and organisers to request medical information that may impact safe participation prior to the activity. However, responsibility also sits with the individual concerned to declare their condition.
• Understanding the participant requirements: Clearly communicating the requirements (both physical and competence) of the paddle ensures that participants can make an informed decision about their own health and fitness levels.
• Duty of care: Group leaders and organisers must assess if they can provide the necessary support for a participant. If a risk is identified, a review must take place to determine if it can be reasonably managed. If reasonable safety measures cannot be taken, participation may be declined.
• Confidentiality: Ensure this data is handled sensitively and is only accessible to those who need it for safety purposes with the approval of the individual concerned.

Practical Safety Measures

• Secure Medication: Individuals should carry necessary medication (Inhalers, EpiPens, Glucose) in a waterproof, accessible container. Ensure your paddling partners know exactly where it is kept.
• Medical IDs: Wearable medical ID bracelets or tags are invaluable. If a person is incapacitated/unresponsive, they provide first responders with critical information immediately.
• Scenario Training: “Practice makes permanent.” For those with a predictable medical risk (e.g., Type 1 Diabetes or Epilepsy), run a mock incident with your group. Training for a predicted scenario significantly improves the outcome of a real incident and confidence for all.

Assessing a Medical Condition

Assessing a medical condition involves weighing the likelihood of an episode occurring against the consequences of that episode happening in a remote or aquatic setting.

A considered review will help determine if the planned trip is appropriate or if adjustments such as changing the route to stay closer to shore or increasing the leader-to-participant ratio are required. It shifts the focus from “can this person paddle?” to “how can we paddle together safely?”.

It is important to note that group leaders are typically first-aid trained and may not have the specialised knowledge to assess complex medical conditions. If concerns remain about a participant’s ability to participate safely, a sports medical assessment from their GP may be required. Please note that GPs may charge for this service and any costs for this assessment are the participant’s responsibility.

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