The MAIB also criticised UK stand-up paddleboarding, saying safety messaging and training governance was inconsistent.
Several safety recommendations have been made by the authors of the report, including risk assessments from Welsh Water in collaboration with Pembrokeshire council and Milford Haven Port Authority.
Western Cleddau river
Image source,MAIB
Image caption,The paddleboarders got into difficulties at a weir outside County Hall
Ch Insp Moll said stand-up paddleboarding was one of the “fastest-growing UK watersports”, with a 300% increase in numbers in recent years and urged participants to be aware of the risks.
“Firstly, wear the right equipment. Always wear a buoyancy aid,” he said.
“In certain conditions, weirs can develop treacherous hydraulic towbacks that can trap and drown you.”
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