Hood River SUP death

[Craig]

I was in Hood River this past weekend when I noticed the sheriffs department was searching the river for someone. I recalled seeing a SUP heading out into the river matching the description of the sheriffs department. When I saw the paddler it looked like he had no leash, wetsuit, or PFD. I was out windsurfing and the winds didn't seem to strong, but I still wore a wetsuit in case I was in the water to long. It was hot out, but I still tilted toward the safe side. We need to use situational awareness when SUP. Please consider a leash, PFD, whistle and wetsuit when paddling. Any enviorment with a current, and or winds can seperate you from your board. Even if the air temp is warm, the water temp can still be low enough to drop your core temp and cause hypothermia. If you see someone out and it doesn't look safe let them know. One SUP death, is one to many. Keep an eye on each other!

Craig

[David]

This is very sad and let's hope it never happens again.. Any more info?

DJ

[Craig]

David,

I heard the fellow had a life jacket on the board, but no leash or wet suit. The water is pretty cold up here in the Northwest. I always have a leash in cold water, and my seven year old has a life vest on, whistle, and wetsuit. I see a lot of people who are over confident in their abilities. We should wear a leash in cold water, especially if there is wind and waves, or current.

Craig