Safety Code for Paddlers

You

  • You must be able to swim at least 50 yards in light clothing.

  • Always assess the water you are going on and wear the appropriate safety gear i.e. buoyancy aid, spraydeck, hard hat etc..

  • Know your own limits and stay within them. If in doubt, ask!

  • Never paddle alone. Paddle with a group and always make sure someone else knows where you are paddling and when you expect to finish.

  • Inexperienced persons should always paddle with a group managed by a suitably trained leader.

Your Kit

  • Wear appropriate clothing for the day – never wear too little – you can always remove some. Always carry/wear waterproof and windproof clothing.

  • Protect yourself from sunburn, especially face, head, neck and arms.

  • Carry enough dry clothing in waterproof containers, extra emergency food (high calorie) and a hot drink, in case of a capsize in the cold.

  • Always wear shoes, the lightweight sort sold for water sports are preferable.

  • Carry sufficient food and drink for the day. Don’t rely on finding a pub or cafe. Have a good meal an hour or two before the start. Don’t skip breakfast.

  • Have enough to drink. Low fluid levels contribute to both hypothermia and heat exhaustion.

  • Avoid alcohol. Don’t take it on the water, or canoe after having over-indulged the previous evening. Alcohol contributes to hypothermia.

  • Carry a First Aid Kit, including any medication needed for yourself.

  • Within the group carry a repair kit.

  • Within the group carry at least two rescue lines, except on very sheltered water.

 Your Craft

Kayaks must have:

  • a footrest adequate to prevent you slipping down the boat

  • bow and stern toggles/grips/handles

  • adequate buoyancy front and rear, secured in place

Canoes must have:

  • bow and stern toggles/grips/handles

  • painters attached to bow and stern

  • adequate buoyancy front and rear, secured in place

SUPs must :

  • be inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure

  • have a quick-release waist leash (not ankle or calf leash)

Make sure packed gear and any lines are secured and would not obstruct exit in the event of a capsize.

On The River

  • Keep clear of overhanging trees and banks, particularly on bends.

  • Keep clear of sluices and weirs (both above and below unless you know what you are doing).

  • Don’t paddle too close to the person in front, and be prepared to stop quickly if necessary.

  • On “navigable” waters used by other vessels, keep out of their way, and remember the rule of the road – keep to the right of oncoming traffic. Local exceptions may apply (e.g. rowing clubs may have a special arrangement to use the “wrong” side in some places).

  • For trips with a designated Run Leader, follow their group management instructions.

Capsize and Rescues

  • Learn rescue procedure – you may need it on any water.   

  • In the case of a capsize, always hang on to your craft and paddle and if practicable swim with it to a bank or shallows.   The exception to this is when heading for a large weir – you can move faster by yourself.

  •  If you capsize in a rapid let your craft lead you through - keep your feet up until you reach calm water.  

  • After a capsize get back in your boat as quickly as possible, either by landing or with assistance from others, and change into dry clothing (unless wearing a wet suit/dry suit) either while in your boat or on the bank. Make sure your boat is properly emptied of water.