RCA Safety Video: Chapter 5

Summary

This video script from Rowing Canada Avira emphasizes the importance of safe coaching practices in rowing. It outlines the coach's role in risk management, including strategies to retain, reduce, transfer, or avoid risks. The script details safety equipment requirements, environmental precautions for various weather conditions, and emergency procedures. It also covers safety guidelines, weather protocols, and the importance of proper personal flotation device usage, ensuring a safe and enjoyable rowing experience.

Takeaways

• 👉 Coaches play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of rowers by being aware of potential hazards and practicing risk management.
• 🔍 Risk management involves identifying, measuring, and controlling risks to reduce the chances of injury or loss.
• 🛑 There are four strategies for controlling risks: retaining, reducing, transferring, and avoiding them.
• 📊 The risk assessment chart developed by the British Amateur Rowing Association helps coaches evaluate the severity and probability of risks.
• 📍 Local water rules and emergency action plans are essential for rowers to understand and follow for safety.
• 🚣‍♂️ Coaches must ensure that all safety equipment is carried as per Transport Canada regulations and RCA guidelines.
• 🧊 In cold water conditions, specific rules and precautions should be followed to prevent hypothermia and ensure rower safety.
• ☀️ Coaches and rowers must be aware of environmental conditions and take appropriate precautions in hot weather to prevent hyperthermia.
• 🚫 Rowing in reduced light conditions poses additional risks, and clubs should establish regulations considering various factors.
• 🛠 Regular checks of rowing equipment, including the shell and coach boat, are necessary to ensure safety before going on the water.
• 🛑 Safety starts with informed decisions before going on the water, considering weather, water conditions, equipment, and supervision.

Q & A

What is the primary role of a coach in the area of safety for rowers?

The primary role of a coach in the area of safety is risk management, which involves reducing the chances of injury or loss by identifying, measuring, and controlling risks.

What are the four strategies for controlling risks as mentioned in the script?

The four strategies for controlling risks are: 1) Retain the risk, 2) Reduce the risk, 3) Transfer the risk, and 4) Avoid the risk.

How is the risk assessment chart used by coaches to evaluate the safety of rowing activities?

The risk assessment chart is used by coaches to identify risks, assess the potential severity and probability on a scale of one to three, and calculate a risk assessment value by summing the severity and probability values. If the intersecting number is 5 or higher, it is considered unacceptable, and the coach should not proceed with the activity.

What are the key components of a club's emergency action plan mentioned in the script?

The key components of a club's emergency action plan include the club's address and phone number, a list of emergency organizations with their phone numbers, and a logbook that records which boats are on the water, who is in them, and when they are expected to return.

What are the safety equipment requirements for coach boats as per Transport Canada regulations?

Transport Canada regulations require coach boats to carry an approved personal flotation device for all occupants, a buoyant heating line, a paddle, a sound signaling device, a baler, watertight flashlight or flares, and navigation lights if operated before sunrise.

What is the RCA weather protocol, and how does it assist coaches and rowers?

The RCA weather protocol assists coaches and rowers by providing guidelines to check the Environment Canada website for local forecasts, using time-lapse radar and satellite imagery to predict the arrival and duration of weather systems. It also advises on not going on the water if certain severe conditions are observed.

Why is it important for coaches and rowers to be aware of environmental conditions during rowing?

Coaches and rowers need to be aware of environmental conditions because rowing takes place outdoors and they are exposed to various weather conditions. This awareness helps in taking necessary precautions and ensuring safety, especially in extreme temperatures or weather conditions.

What are the recommended actions to prevent hypothermia while rowing in cold water conditions?

To prevent hypothermia, it is recommended that rowers dress appropriately for cold weather, including wearing a hat, and stay within sight of the coach or safety boats. Clubs should also institute their own specific cold water rules based on water temperature and other environmental factors.

How should coaches prepare their coach boat before a practice session?

Coaches should ensure the motorboat is ready by checking the capacity, having all required safety gear on board, ensuring the motor is running smoothly, and having sufficient fuel. They should also confirm that all safety equipment is properly stored and that the boat is ready to launch when the crew is.

What are the safety considerations for landing a coach boat, both at a dock and on a shore or beach?

For a dock landing, coaches should cut speed far enough away to avoid creating a wake that could impact others, and use slow, controlled moves to angle the boat parallel to the dock. For a shore or beach landing, the coach should land the boat perpendicular to the shore, cut the motor, and pull the boat up to get the prop out of the water.

Outlines

00:00

🚣‍♂️ Safe Coaching Practices

This section emphasizes the coach's role in ensuring the safety of rowers. It covers the importance of risk management, which involves identifying, measuring, and controlling potential hazards related to equipment, facilities, and environmental conditions. The coach is expected to use common sense and adopt four strategies for risk control: retaining minor risks, reducing moderate risks, transferring significant risks, and avoiding severe risks. The safety of rowers is paramount, and coaches should be well-informed about safety issues through education courses like boat operation and CPR training. A risk assessment chart is introduced to help coaches evaluate the severity and probability of risks, with a focus on unacceptable risk values that require action. The paragraph also discusses the importance of teaching novices safety precautions, understanding local water rules, and adhering to emergency procedures.

05:02

🛠️ Equipment and Safety Regulations

This paragraph discusses the importance of equipment maintenance and adherence to Transport Canada regulations for vessels operating in Canadian waters. It outlines the safety equipment required for coach boats and rowing shells, such as personal flotation devices, buoyant heating lines, paddles, signaling devices, and navigation lights. The Canadian Rowing Association (RCA) also recommends additional safety equipment like thermal blankets and boat side ladders. The RCA weather protocol is introduced to guide coaches and rowers in assessing weather conditions using Environment Canada's resources. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are highlighted, with a focus on proper use and instruction for rowers. The paragraph also covers environmental conditions, including precautions for rowing in cold and hot weather, and the importance of appropriate attire for coaches and rowers.

10:04

❄️ Cold Water Safety and Hypothermia

The focus of this paragraph is on the risks associated with cold water rowing and hypothermia prevention. It advises clubs to establish cold water rules and educate rowers on cold water procedures. Hypothermia is defined as a dangerous drop in body temperature, with mild, moderate, and severe stages described. The paragraph provides guidance on recognizing and managing hypothermia, including immediate actions such as calling emergency services and CPR if necessary. It also covers hot weather considerations, including the importance of hydration and being aware of heat-related injuries like heat cramping, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. The paragraph concludes with recommendations for rowing at dawn and dusk, emphasizing the increased risks and guidelines for safe practice.

15:04

🔍 Pre-Row Checks and Safety Equipment

This section details the pre-row checks for rowing shells and coach boats, emphasizing the importance of inspecting the boat's exterior and interior for safety. It covers checking for cracks, ensuring vents are closed, and verifying the fin and riggers are secure. Rowers are instructed to check their seat's heel tie downs and sliding seat wheels. The paragraph also discusses the readiness of the coach boat, including capacity considerations, safety gear, and the importance of the motorboat's kill switch. Guidance is provided for docking the coach boat and storing gasoline safely. The paragraph concludes with advice on finding safe havens on the shoreline and assisting crews in the water during emergencies.

20:06

🛑 Emergency Response and Safety Planning

The final paragraph emphasizes the importance of safety planning before going on the water. It highlights the need to assess weather and water conditions, time of day, equipment, and supervision to ensure a safe training session. The paragraph discusses the distribution of PFDs in emergencies and the process of assisting rowers into the safety boat. It also covers the importance of clubs and coaches implementing and practicing safety guidelines to minimize risks. The paragraph concludes with a reminder that safety is a collective responsibility and that adherence to safety standards is crucial for enjoying the sport of rowing.

Keywords

💡Risk Management

Risk management is a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks followed by coordinating and implementing actions to minimize, monitor, and control the probability and impact of unfortunate events. In the context of the video, it is crucial for coaches to manage risks associated with rowing activities, such as potential hazards with equipment, facilities, and environmental conditions. The video emphasizes the importance of risk management in ensuring the safety of rowers, which is a central theme of the video.

💡Risk Assessment Chart

A risk assessment chart is a tool used to evaluate potential hazards and their likelihood of causing harm. It helps in quantifying risks by assigning numerical values to both the severity and probability of risks. The video mentions that coaches should use the chart developed by the British Amateur Rowing Association to assess risks for any planned rowing activity. This tool is integral to the video's message on proactive safety measures in coaching.

💡Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Personal Flotation Devices, or PFDs, are safety equipment designed to keep a person afloat in water. The video underscores the necessity of PFDs for both rowers and coaches, highlighting Transport Canada's regulations that require them on all vessels. The video also discusses different types of PFDs suitable for various weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of proper use and instruction for rowers.

💡Environmental Conditions

Environmental conditions refer to the weather and surrounding factors that can affect the safety and performance of outdoor activities like rowing. The video discusses how coaches and rowers must be aware of and adapt to various weather conditions, including hot and cold temperatures, to ensure safety. It also mentions the RCA weather protocol, which guides coaches and rowers in assessing weather conditions before and during activities.

💡Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

An Emergency Action Plan outlines procedures to be followed in case of an emergency. The video stresses the importance of having an EAP posted in a prominent location within the club, including contact information for emergency organizations. This plan is a critical component of the video's focus on safety, as it ensures that there is a clear course of action in emergencies.

💡Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a medical condition that occurs when a person's body temperature drops dangerously low. In the video, it is mentioned as a risk in cold water conditions, and the script provides guidelines on how to prevent and recognize hypothermia. The video's discussion on hypothermia is an example of the comprehensive approach to safety it advocates for coaches and rowers.

💡Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia is the opposite of hypothermia, where the body's temperature rises excessively, often due to high external temperatures or intense physical activity. The video addresses the risk of hyperthermia in hot weather conditions and provides advice on prevention and recognition, which ties into the broader theme of environmental awareness and safety.

💡Local Water Rules

Local water rules are regulations specific to the waterways that dictate traffic patterns, right of way, and other navigational protocols. The video emphasizes that coaches and rowers must be familiar with these rules to ensure safe navigation and avoid collisions or other hazards. This concept is integral to the video's message on the importance of adhering to safety protocols.

💡Safety Equipment

Safety equipment refers to the tools and devices necessary to prevent or mitigate accidents and injuries. The video lists various pieces of safety equipment required for both coach boats and rowing shells, such as buoyant heating lines, paddles, and sound signaling devices. The discussion of safety equipment in the video highlights the proactive measures that coaches must take to ensure the safety of their rowers.

💡Coach Boat

A coach boat is a motorized boat used by coaches to follow and instruct rowers during practice. The video details the importance of the coach boat as a key piece of safety equipment, emphasizing the need for it to be ready and equipped with all necessary safety gear before any practice session. The coach boat's role in safety is a recurring theme throughout the video, illustrating the coach's responsibility in overseeing rowing activities.

Highlights

Coaches play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of rowers by being aware of potential hazards.

Risk management is a key responsibility for coaches, involving identifying, measuring, and controlling risks.

Coaches should use common sense in risk management strategies to ensure safety.

Four strategies for controlling risks include retaining, reducing, transferring, and avoiding risks.

Coaches can become well-informed about safety issues through education courses like boat operators and CPR training.

The risk assessment chart is a tool for coaches to identify and assess the severity and probability of risks.

Coaches must ensure that rowers are familiar with local water rules and club emergency procedures.

Each club should have an emergency action plan and a logbook to track rowers on the water.

Coaches should report any damage to equipment after a row to ensure safety before the next use.

Transport Canada regulations require specific safety equipment on vessels, including personal flotation devices.

RCA safety guidelines provide recommendations for safety equipment to be carried in rowing shells and coach boats.

RCA has established a weather protocol to assist coaches and rowers in assessing environmental conditions.

Personal flotation devices are essential, and coaches must ensure they are used properly by rowers.

Coaches and rowers need to be aware of environmental conditions and take precautions in hot and cold weather.

Hypothermia and hyperthermia are risks in cold and hot weather, respectively, and coaches should be prepared to address them.

Coaches should avoid rowing in reduced light conditions and ensure all boats return before dark.

Checking the condition of a shell and its equipment is a critical pre-launch safety measure.

Coaches must ensure their motorboat is ready with all necessary safety gear before practice begins.

Safe havens should be identified for emergency situations, and coaches should be prepared to assist crews in the water.

Safety starts with informed decisions before going on the water, considering weather, water conditions, and equipment.

Transcripts

rowing canada avira

in concert with the coaching association

of canada presents this chapter which

focuses on safe coaching practices

chapter 5

coaches safety concerns

this section of the safety video

outlines the coaches key areas of

responsibility

many cases the coach is responsible for

the safety of the rowers

this means being aware of potential

hazards associated with the equipment

facilities and the environmental

conditions the coach's role in the area

of safety

primarily relates to risk management

controlling risk

risk management is defined as reducing

the chances of injury or loss by taking

steps to identify

measure and control the risks this means

that the coach spends time

thinking about potentially risky

situations decides which situations

might pose serious risks

and determines what practical steps he

or she can take to minimize those risks

in most cases the coach simply needs to

use common sense

in actions related to risk management

there are four strategies for

controlling risks

all of which are important to the coach

retain the risk the risk is minor and it

is inherent in the sport activity

the coach is willing to accept the

consequences as he or she is unable to

do anything about the risk

like the inherent risks in rock climbing

reduce the risk the risk is moderately

significant and the coach takes the

appropriate measures to reduce the

likelihood of the risk occurring or the

consequences if it does occur

through careful planning supervising and

educating the participants

transfer the risk the risk is

significant and it is transferred to

others through contracts including

personal waivers and third-party

insurance policy coverage

avoid the risk the risk is severe and

the coach decides to avoid whatever may

cause the risk

the safety of the rowers has to be

paramount ahead of concerns for the

equipment or the need to go out for a

row

a coach or instructor can become well

informed about safety issues by

participating in coach education courses

such as

the boat operators course and cpr

training

risk assessment chart what you see here

is a risk assessment guide developed by

the british amateur rowing association

using this chart the coach should

identify the risks present for any

planned growing activity

and assess the potential severity and

probability on a scale of one to three

the risk assessment chart provides a

numerical value for the combination of

risk and probability

the important risk assessment number is

the sum of the severity and probability

values

for severity running across the top one

is minor only slightly harmful

two although potentially harmful is an

acceptable risk

while three is major the possible

consequences are of serious concern

and could be extremely harmful

the coach will then identify the

likelihood or probability

running down the left side of the chart

of the activity and assess this on the

same scale

one is highly unlikely two is possible

but unlikely

and three is very likely to occur

whether severity is minor and highly

unlikely to happen

the risk assessment value is two and can

be an acceptable level of risk

where the severity is major and very

likely to happen the risk assessment

value is six

and the risk is unacceptable the coach

or the ltr instructor must take steps to

reduce one of the factors

so that the activity becomes safe or the

coach does not undertake the high risk

activity

when the intersecting severity and

probability number on the assessment

chart is 5 or higher it can be

considered an unacceptable value

at which point the coach should not

proceed with the activity

the coach is key to teaching novices the

safety precautions from the outset

prior to starting his or her first row

each rower should be familiar with the

local water rules and understand the

club's emergency procedures

local water rules each club should have

a map or a diagram that shows the

traffic pattern for their waterway

it's essential that all rowers

especially the coxswain or the bow

person

clearly understands and abides by the

local water traffic patterns

the right of way and sharing the use of

the water with other marine traffic

emergency action plan each club's

emergency action plan

should be posted in a prominent location

on an information board

the eap should include the club's

address and phone number

and list the names of emergency

organizations all with their appropriate

phone numbers

the rowers out in logbook this log book

records what boats are on the water

who is in them and when they are

expected to return

it is an important safety tracking tool

to ensure that all those crews who have

launched

have in fact returned at or around the

expected time

equipment repairs this board provides

information about which shells

ores or coach boats are out of

commission or in need of repair

upon returning from a row the scholar or

crew should report any damage which

requires repair

before that equipment is taken out again

transport canada regulations you should

be aware that all vessels using canadian

waters are governed by the canada

shipping act

which sets out regulations for the

operation of small vessels

these will be enforced by police forces

conservation officers and other

authorized agencies

these regulations specify the safety

equipment that must be carried in the

coach boat and in rowing shells

safety equipment to be carried in the

coach boat an

approved personal flotation device for

all occupants of the coach boat and each

person in the largest shell

under their care a buoyant heating line

a paddle

a sound signaling device a baler

watertight flashlight or flares and

navigation lights if operated before

sunrise this list can be found in

transport canada's safe boating guide

or on the web rca further recommends

thermal blankets and a boat side ladder

safety equipment to be carried in the

rowing shelves a personal flotation

device for each person when not

accompanied by a coach boat a whistle

and a flashlight rca safety guidelines

the rca safety guidelines are found in

printed format and are downloadable from

the rca website

rca weather protocol rca has established

a weather protocol to assist coaches

and rowers check the environment canada

website for your local forecast

using the environment canada time-lapse

radar and satellite imagery

the coach or rower can see the existing

conditions and predict the arrival

and duration of impending short-term

weather systems

some clubs might have their own actual

weather station which can display a

synopsis of the immediate

relevant data for local conditions

when you get to the club if you observe

strong winds

white caps hear thunder see lightning or

fog is present

you should probably not go on the water

if you're on the water and these

conditions arise you should return to

the boathouse or get to the nearest

safe haven if you're in doubt about the

weather conditions it may be useful to

use the risk assessment chart

to determine the risk and consult with

the person designated by your club to

make recommendations of this nature

personal flotation devices there are

many different models of personal

flotation devices available for use by

both rowers and coaches

mustang survival has a great range of

products for all shapes

sizes and on water functions

it's important for you to know how to

properly use your pfd

it's also important that you instruct

your rowers on the proper use of their

pfds

for coaches the following mustang pfds

offer flotation to suit your specific

needs

and are all transport canada approved

the full one-piece floater

suit floater pants and jacket

adult boaters vest

inflatable collar pfd

environmental conditions the sport of

rowing takes place outside

therefore coaches and rowers are exposed

to various weather conditions

in both hot and cold coaches and rowers

need to take precautions and be aware of

the environmental conditions

rowing in cold water conditions

in cold weather it's advised that clubs

institute their own specific cold water

rules

in conditions where the water

temperature is below 15 degrees

all rowers should stay within sight of

the coach or safety boats

when the water temperature is between 15

to 18 degrees

rower should be within hailing distance

of the coach boat or row with a buddy

no going out alone these rules may also

be adjusted depending on wind or wave

conditions

strength of the current air temperature

and the proficiency and experience of

the rowers

coach's cold weather attire

mustang floater suit or jacket and pants

not only do these suits provide superior

buoyancy they also provide warmth for

the coach who is out on the water in the

cold

pfd over other warm clothing depending

on the temperature make sure to wear

enough layers under the suit to keep you

warm

light hiking boots or shoes no long

rubber boots as these can fill with

water and act as weights

hat gloves or mitts keep the extremities

covered to avoid rapid heat loss

sunglasses and sunblock should be worn

even in the winter to protect from

harmful uv rays

hypothermia during cold water conditions

it is recommended that rowers are

briefed on cold water procedures

one of the risks of being on the water

particularly in cold weather or cold

water conditions is hypothermia

hypothermia is a condition created when

the temperature of the body drops below

35 degrees celsius while mild

hypothermia can be reversed

serious hypothermia can result in death

how to prevent hypothermia wind

rain and cold temperatures can all

contribute to hypothermia

therefore dress appropriately for cold

weather including wearing a hat

you can recognize mild hypothermia when

someone is shivering

the person may not be able to perform

fine motor functions

but can still walk and talk moderate

hypothermia can be recognized when a

person is in a dazed

semi-conscious state they exhibit loss

of fine motor coordination particularly

in the hands

for example they can't zip up a

windbreaker or do up an orlock

they'll exhibit slurred speech and

uncontrollable shivering

with severe hypothermia the core

temperature is very low which is

immediately life-threatening

shivering occurs in violent waves then

pauses this may occur if the individual

has been exposed in cold water for an

extended period of time

call 9-1-1 immediately initial

management should include

cpr if the victim is not breathing or

has no pulse

immersion in water if you find yourself

in the water

get on top of the rowing shell with as

much of your core body out of the water

as possible

adopt the help position if you're by

yourself

or the huddle position in a group to

reduce exposure of the body core

to the cold water once the person is in

a safety boat

reduce heat loss by covering them with a

thermal blanket and protect them from

the wind or rain

further core heat loss should be

prevented by removing wet garments and

insulating the victim with dry clothing

or blankets or

by others placing their warm bodies

against the victim

coach hot weather dress long

sleeved lightweight shirt to provide

protection from the direct sun

and the reflection off the water pfd

as seen here a horse collar type works

well

it provides buoyancy yet allows full

range of motion

and does not trap heat on those warmer

days peaked cap or marine hat

ideally one should cover the ears and

the back of the neck

sunglasses and sunblock the harmful uv

rays are stronger in the summer

these last two items are highly

recommended make sure your rowers dress

properly for the conditions too

hyperthermia

hyperthermia is the overheating of the

body usually caused by high outside

temperatures

prolonged vigorous exercise and warm

humid weather

is the major cause of hyperthermia if

the humadex is above 35 the coach or

instructor will need to consider

hydration factors you'll need to be

aware of any pre-existing medical

conditions

current fitness levels and age of the

rowers and adjust the practice

accordingly

watch for signs of the following heat

related injuries

in order to prevent hyperthermia stay

well hydrated before

during and after rowing avoid drinks

containing more than 2.5 percent sugar

drinks with alcohol and drinks with

caffeine avoid salt tablets or sports

drinks with high sodium concentrations

if temperature and humidity are going to

be extremely high

row early in the day or later in the

evening when not on the water

stay in the shade heat cramping is

expressed by extreme sweating in the

large

working muscles massage can provide

immediate relief of the cramps

heat exhaustion is expressed with cramps

tiredness decrease in performance

impaired judgment

and emotional changes confusion vomiting

and seizures

may follow if you suspect an athlete is

suffering from heat exhaustion

have them rest and encourage fluid

replenishment

heat stroke displays dry or clammy skin

and in extreme cases

the rower may lose consciousness get

medical help

immediately lower the victim's body into

cool water

maintaining a horizontal position stop

treatment when the victim is conscious

and alert

rowing at dawn and dusk there are far

greater risks growing in the dark before

sunrise and after sunset

if a shell capsizes it'll be extremely

difficult to attract attention

and affect a rescue as a general

guideline

it's recommended that rowers should not

launch any earlier

than one half hour before official

sunrise

we also recommend that all boats should

return to the dock

no later than official sunset this

allows

only 30 minutes of diminishing light

until it's too dark to effectively see

on the water

more time may be needed to find crews a

long way away on a river

a large lake or ocean bay coaches and

club administrators should also consider

the following when setting the club

regulations related to rowing in reduced

light conditions

temperature of the water hazards on the

water bridge

abutments deadheads skill level and

experience of the rowers

using the ara model risk assessment

chart

a coach or club administrator should be

able to determine potential risks and

act accordingly

checking the condition of a shell it is

a good practice to check the boat you're

about to grow before you launch

each outing key points to check on the

boat's exterior before each row are

feel for checks or cracks on the skin of

the hull

check that the bow and stern compartment

vents are closed and make sure the bow

ball is firmly attached

the fin make sure it is firmly affixed

and straight with the spine of the hull

after you have checked the exterior of

the shell is now time to check the

inside of the boat with each rower

checking their own seat

each rower should check the condition of

the heel tie downs to make sure they are

secure

and allow the heels to rise no more than

seven centimeters

or the width of the knuckles of a fist

this is a very important safety feature

as these tethers will stop the heel of

the shoe

and allow you to pull your feet out if

the boat capsizes

rowers and or the coach should do a

quick check to see that the riggers are

securely attached to the hull

and the top nut on the oar lock pin is

tight all rowers should check the

sliding seat wheels

and the wheel tracks to make sure

they're rolling smoothly

coach boat ready to go

one of the coaches most important pieces

of safety equipment is the motorboat

therefore you need to make sure it's

ready to go when the crew is ready to

start their practice

consider the capacity of your motorboat

and the number of athletes that will be

in your care

how many athletes is reasonable given

your experience their experience

water and weather conditions no matter

what the experience level of the group

the coach must have all the safety gear

items on board

in a watertight bag or container the

coach should have enough pfds for all

members of the largest crew in their

care

properly stored in the boat be sure that

the motor has started and is running

smoothly

you should have more fuel than you

estimate will be required for the

practice

plus as soon as the coach confirms he or

she is ready to go

the crew is given the okay to leave the

dock

practice is about to begin

coach boat on the water the coach boat

should have counter balancing weight in

the bow to keep the bow down

allowing the coach to see where they and

the crew are heading

the coach should be in contact with and

able to steer crews clear of various

obstacles on the waterway

the motor kill switch the kill switch

lanyard on the motor should be fastened

each time the coach starts the motor

the kill switch is a safety device that

will stop the motor from operating

in the event that the lanyard is pulled

too far away from the motor

should the coach be thrown from the boat

the motor will automatically stop

this prevents the unattended boat and

running motor from becoming a safety

hazard

the running motor is very dangerous and

has the potential to cause injury to the

coach

and others in or on the water in this

case

the coach was not wearing the lanyard

the kill switch was not activated when

he was thrown from the boat

he cannot get back into the boat without

possibly being run over

yikes or the boat disappearing across

the lake

landing the coach boat in the case of a

dock landing

a coach should bring the coach boat into

the dock by cutting speed

far enough away so their wake does not

adversely impact any others at or on the

dock

the coach will use slow controlled moves

to angle and drift the side of the coach

boat

parallel to the side of the dock this

can be done by driving the boat

upstream if there's any current or into

any wind

in the case of a shore or beach landing

the coach will land the boat

perpendicular to the beach

driving the bow slowly onto the beach or

shallows

the coach will cut the motor and pull it

up to get the prop out of the water

avoiding damage by the sand or the rocks

gasoline storage gasoline is highly

volatile and toxic

it has a low flash point the temperature

at which it will vaporize and can be

easily ignited

gas should be stored in a secure well

ventilated shed outside the boathouse

if possible away from any ignition

source or

stored in a secure and isolated room

within the building

gasoline vaporizes readily and its

vapors are heavier than air

they can quickly collect in the bottom

of your coach boat when refueling

portable tanks must be removed from the

boat

and placed on the ground lastly wipe up

any spills quickly

a liter of gasoline contaminates 20 000

liters of water

finding safe havens a coach

or bowel person should always be

aware of and looking for

potential safe havens on the shoreline

such as docks and beaches

look for places where a scholar or crew

could get ashore in case of emergency

ideally these areas are clearly

identified on the information boards at

the clubhouse

in some cases decisions must be made on

the spot

and an awareness of the waterway can be

essential

assisting crews in the water

in the case of a crew tipping or

swamping without pfds in their boat the

coach will have to distribute pfds to

each member of the crew in the water as

soon as possible

as soon as all members of the crew are

safely in their pfds

the next step is for the coach to help

get the rowers out of the water and into

the safety boat

in the case of a soft-sided boat the

coach and rowers on board can assist the

others by pulling them over the side of

their boat

if the coach is driving a hard-sided

coach boat the coach

should position themselves within the

boat to provide counter balance for the

rowers

as they climb into the front back or

side of the coach boat

boats equipped with a boat ladder

provide the best access for getting

those who have to be assisted

into the coach boat those who have been

helped into the boat should assist the

others

remembering that they must balance the

boat in order to prevent the rescue boat

from tipping over

as soon as the coach has the rower

safely out of the water and into the

boat

the rower should be wrapped in a thermal

blanket if it's a group of rowers they

should huddle together to share body

heat and stay down in the boat

out of the wind

safety starts before you go on the water

many accidents take place because

uninformed or ill-considered decisions

are made

before leaving the boathouse weather and

water conditions

time of day the equipment and

appropriate supervision are all critical

components

they must be assessed in order to ensure

that it's a safe training session

each club in concert with the provincial

rowing association

is responsible for implementing and

enforcing their own safety standards

taking into account their respective

provincial laws and local regulations

rca encourages all rowing clubs and

individual coaches and rowers

to implement and practice the foregoing

guidelines

to minimize the risks and maximize the

enjoyment of our sport

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