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Safety

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During the summer season, if a safety motorboat is accompanying you then you are not required to wear a PFD. If a safety motorboat is not accompanying you, then:
  • Have a PFD, sound device (e.g. a whistle on a string around your neck) and a bailer, and try to arrange to paddle with a buddy.
  • Wear the PFD if paddling alone. It’s a wise safety precaution, and it’s also the law.
  • A Coast Guard patrol boat will give you a fine of several hundred dollars if you are not wearing your PFD when not ccompanied by a safety boat.
  • Return to the clubhouse before closing time. If you are unsure of the closing time then check with a coach or the person on dock duty before embarking from the club. 
Stricter safety rules are enforced during the spring and fall paddling season, due to cold water. Consult with your coach (or the head coach if you are not in a coached program) before embarking on a spring or fall paddling program. Also read the RCC’s Cold Water Paddling manual, available from your coach. 

Working with free weights is more dangerous and requires more skill than working with weight machines. Yet free weight workouts have their own benefits, and are generally preferred by paddlers.
  • If you do not know how to use free weights, seek the necessary training from your coach
  • It is recommended that you do your weight workouts with a buddy
  • If working out without a buddy, ensure that there is someone else present in the weight room
  • Learn the correct procedures for handling and storing the weights
Novice and intermediate paddlers should consult with their coach prior to using more advanced boats. Frequent capsizing of high performance boats causes waterlogging and also increases the likelihood of lost hardware.