Overview

Safety is everyone’s concern. Anyone involved with the sport of rowing at this club must familiarize themselves with at least the basics of water and boating safety. Reviewing Rowing Canada’s safety DVD at the beginning of each season is a good place to start. That said, all of rowing’s governing bodies – international, federal, and provincial – have detailed rowing safety guidelines, and you are encouraged to visit their websites on our Rowing Links page to learn as much about rowing safety as possible.

As directed by these bodies, each regional club is expected to develop a set of safety guidelines that are unique to their area. Please read the SRC Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) document posted inside the clubhouse for details pertinent to our club.

Responsibility

The Coach Boat and Safety Boat drivers, Boat Maintenance team, Coxswains, and rowers are ALL responsible for the safety of ALL participants on the water and on the shore. All coach boat drivers need to have a Canadian Coast Guard Pleasure Craft Operators Card. Call 1-800-267-6687 or visit www.boatingsafety.gc.ca  for further information. Rowers and coaches must take personal responsibility to employ reasonable safety procedures at all times.

Quick Tips

 • always check local weather conditions before heading out on the water : 677- 7928

• consult with the coach boat / safety boat operator before leaving the dock if weather conditions warrant

• always dress appropriately for the weather and water conditions. E.g. wear white for greater visibility!

• always fill in the marine log book before setting out from the boathouse AND upon return.

• always check equipment before launching

• never leave the dock area until the motorized safety boat is launched and fully operational

• always keep the safety boat within sight

 • know the traffic pattern and follow it at ALL times, unless advised otherwise by the head coach

 • know what to do should you find yourself in the water, especially COLD water

• know how to treat hypothermia

 • know the guidelines relating to rowing before sunrise and prior to sunset

• know where the phones are located inside and outside the clubhouse

 • know marine right of ways

 • always carry your Canadian Boat Operators License when operating a motorized water craft.

DO NOT ROW if...

• There are electrical storms in the area e.g. lightning / thunder

• There are high winds

 • The waves have ‘white caps’ or there are swells

• There is thick fog

• It is extremely cold

Instead, consider other forms of training when rowing conditions are risky. e.g. erg, bike, run, weights, aerobics. There is no single document that can prepare you for all eventualities, but by practicing the rowing guidelines set out by rowing’s governing bodies you can minimize the risks, and maximize the enjoyment of rowing.

Health Advisory

• Rowers over 40 years of age should consider having a medical check up before rowing

• All rowers should have a medical screening before commencing a serious training program

• Please inform your club, coach, and boat race officials if you have a medical condition that may affect your safety. (e.g. asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, heart condition.)