The following RowSafe summary, as well as the full RowSafe guide, must be read in conjunction with the CRC policies for Health and Safety, as well as the protocols operated by L32.

All members of CRC must sign the Personal Responsibility for Health and Safety Agreement.

Whilst L32 Outdoor Centre enforces mandatory protocols for water users, it is incumbent on all CRC members to to take reasonable responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others.

Whilst CRC offer basic first aid, L32 emergency infrastructure includes first aid provisions and staff trained in water rescue and safety protocols.

Rowing Safety

Safety is everyone's responsibility. Everyone is expected to take reasonable responsibility for their own safety and that of others, follow Club Safety Rules, Circulation Plans, and report hazards, incidents and near misses.

Before Going Afloat

• Check your boat and equipment before every outing.
• Make sure you are appropriately dressed for the weather and water conditions.
• Carry sufficient drinking water and be prepared for cold, heat and changing weather.
• Check the current lake conditions, local hazards and any temporary restrictions.
• Follow the Club Circulation Plan and all local navigation rules.
• Do not go rowing if conditions are considered unsafe.
• Make sure you are competent for the boat and conditions you are undertaking.

On the Water

• Maintain a good lookout at all times.
• Follow the Circulation Plan and give appropriate consideration to other water users.
• Follow the instructions of the cox, steersperson or coach.
• Keep a safe speed and allow for the conditions and your own ability.

Capsize and Emergencies

All members should understand what to do in the event of a capsize or person entering the water. Members should be familiar with the Club Emergency Response Plan and know where emergency equipment is located.

The club provides appropriate safety equipment and training, including rescue equipment and, where required, capsize and recovery training.

In an emergency:

1. Raise the alarm and contact the appropriate emergency service.
2. Assist others where it is safe to do so.
3. Follow the Club Emergency Response Plan.
4. Report the incident to the Club and through the British Rowing Incident Reporting System where appropriate.

Cold-water and Weather

Cold-water immersion can rapidly impair the ability to swim or stay afloat and can lead to hypothermia and drowning. Members should understand the risks, wear clothing appropriate for the conditions and know how to respond to cold-water immersion.

In hot or sunny conditions, stay hydrated, carry drinking water, use appropriate clothing and sunscreen, and watch for signs of heat illness.

Health and First Aid

Members should tell their coach or an appropriate club officer about any medical or fitness issue that could affect their safety or the safety of others.

Concussion, collapse, cold-water immersion, heat illness and waterborne infections are all identified by British Rowing as important rowing safety considerations.

Look After Each Other

A strong safety culture depends on everyone. If you see an unsafe situation, do something about it where appropriate, warn others and report it. RowSafe emphasises that many harmful incidents result from at-risk behaviour. Making good decisions and looking out for others an essential part of rowing safely.