Aberystwyth Rowing Club: Safety
Update for 2005
In keeping with SOLAS V regulations certain precautions should be taken before undertaking a rowing session
A risk assessment / trip log should be filled in for each training session. This must be done by the highest qualified or most experienced club member present. Forms and a waterproof wallet folder are available in the club. Once a decision has been made as to where the training session is to take place the risk assessment / trip log should be signed and dated.
Each boat must have a mobile phone on board (waterproof pouches are provided) and the coastguard must be informed if the boat is going to sea. Information given should include - number of boats, number of rowers, direction of travel and expected duration. The Coastguard must be informed on the succesful return of the boats.
Other precautions
Coxes must take lifejackets or buoyancy aids at all times. Junior crews should wear lifejackets at all times.
Before going afloat and on return check the boat for loose nuts or bolts, this could prevent equipment failure during your outing.
Check that the flare canister is attached and contains flares.
The longboats are equipped with forward and aft (under the stern seat) inspection hatches, these should be closed while afloat as these areas provide the main bouyancy for the boat.
Novice crews should not go afloat without the appropriate supervision and preferably the presence of a support safety boat.
Before being allowed out on the river or out to sea you must confirm that you are a competent swimmer capable of doing 100m in light clothing. You must also be in good health with no known disability that might affect you whilst rowing e.g. epilepsy or a heart condition. Rowing can be a very vigorous form of exercise.
Always keep a good look out both ahead and behind. If anyone is on a collision course
shout out AHEAD
All Junior teams must be accompanied by the Club inflatable with an experienced boat handler at the helm when going out to sea.
There are International regulations concerning the prevention of collisions at sea.
In general power must give way to sail. A rowing boat is a boat under power. However this does not apply to ferries or large vessels.
An overtaking vessel must keep clear.
Boats on a collision course must keep to the right of each other (this does not always apply to sailing craft)
Capsize Drill
If you do fall in, try to stay relaxed and keep calm. It can be quite a shock as you may be quite warm from rowing.
BUT MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL HAVE FUN AND COME BACK SAFELY BOATS CAN BE REPLACED ON INSURNCE BUT CREWS CANNOT