Advice to Paddlers

Kayak Kit List

See the link below to show what we recommend is the advised kit list for beginners, intermediates, advanced, and river leaders (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)
Kayak Kit List (59kb)

 

White Water Safety

The link below contains important advice and information when on a river trip. River running techniques, rescue techniques etc... An important read for anyone who goes on any river trip. (Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)
White Water Safety (78kb)

 

General Advice

• New members and old alike are reminded that below the clubhouse are several potentially fatal weirs. If in doubt do not paddle.
  
  
• Request the company of an experienced paddler and inspect before using the water.Remember "Less than three their should never be"!!
  
  
• Novices must first prove they can exit boats confidently in the pool and then the river before embarking on any activity.
  
  
• Normal paddling levels are several inches below the wooden jetty. Levels above the wooden jetty will prove hazardous or life threatening.
  
  
• Anyone who purchases a new boat is advised to seek assistance and check they can confidently exit the vessel before embarking on any activity. If you are thinking of purchasing a new boat take advantage of club advice.
  
  
• Always wear a CEE approved helmet, buoyancy aid and spraydeck.
  
  
• Always check other peoples spraydeck loops are showing and not tucked inside.
  
  
• Never Paddle Alone.
  
  
• Always dress appropriately for prevailing weather conditions. Be aware of hypothermia, cynosis, unresponsive behaviour. Carry suitable equipment, clothing and food depending on the type of activity undertaken.
  
  
• Never Paddle in Groups of Less than Three especially on unfamiliar water.
  
  
• Never paddle after alcohol or any drugs which may cause side effects.
  
  
• Never alter the outfitting in a craft without experienced advice.
  
  
• Be aware of varying water levels on rivers;
  
  
• Always take into consideration all aspects of the paddle, people’s ability, safety equipment, experience and qualifications and need for evacuation.
  
  
• Be aware of potential hazards, trees, rocks, weirs etc. especially other river uses.
  
  
• Inspect and portage where necessary.
  
  
• Be honest with yourself, do not exceed your paddling ability.
  
  
• Re member your actions directly affect others you paddle with, and therefore the safety of any group must be paramount.

 

Junior Articles: (Anyone under the age of 18)

• No junior may canoe alone from the clubhouse.
  
  
• No junior may take a boat from the Clubhouse unless a responsible adult is present.
  
  
• All juniors & novices must wear buoyancy aids and helmets on outdoor water at all times unless exempted at the express permission of their coach on an organised session.
  
  
• Juniors may not paddle without a competent adult present until they have passed their BCU 2 Star (or Placid Water Grade III) Test.
  
  
• Juniors must paddle in groups of not less than three, all of whom must be competent for the conditions.
  

 

AFTER ALL THAT, DON’T RUN AWAY!

Paddling is a fun sport, it’s adventurous, technical, social and damn right wet, so go for it. Enjoy Yourselves Folks