Safety is our primary responsibility and a commitment to all of our participants and staff members so that they can all have positive, enjoyable, and long lasting rowing experiences.

With this in mind, we implement hi-safety standards into all of our programs, and require that all participants review our safety policy before engaging in our classes. 

It is important to us that everyone is aware of potential dangers and risks they may be exposed by participating in rowing activities, and learn all about the safety strategies to avoid the dangers, minimize the risks, and be safe both on the water and land.

We have adopted USRowing SafeSport Policy to prevent any form of misconduct in the areas of Bullying, Hazing, Harassment (including sexual or gender harassment), Emotional Misconduct, Physical Misconduct, and Sexual Misconduct (including child sexual abuse and/or grooming behaviors). All ROW4ALL participants are strongly encouraged to read ROW4ALL SAFESPORT POLICY.

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BEFORE WE ROW

1.  Each participant should be CLEARED by their PHYSICIAN for vigorous physical activity.

2.  Each participant must be able to pass a SWIM TEST: continuously swim for at least 200 yards, and tread water for at least 10 minutes.

3.  Coaching staff will carry a CELL PHONE at all times (especially while on-the-water) to allow a quick direct link with rescue services and other staff members in the event of an emergency.

4.  EMERGENCY SUPPLIES including a first aid kit, nigh lights, and tool kit will be at hand at all times.

5.  Each participant should watch US ROWING SAFETY VIDEO (first 27 minutes) prior to engaging in any of the ROW4ALL class activities.

6.  Each participant should review CONCUSSION FACTS SHEET.

7.  Coaches and staff will be familiar with the WEATHER AND WATER CONDITIONS, and will make sure they are appropriate and safe for the rowing activities.

• No rowing in whitecaps or winds of 12 knots or higher

• No rowing in fog unless the visibility to shore is as least 100 yards.

• No rowing during heavy rain, lightning, and thunder.

8.  Participants will follow HEAT PRECAUTION MEASURES when temperatures are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and relative humidity is above 85%.

• Activity level will be adjusted to the degree of heat and humidity.

• Frequent water breaks will be provided. You must bring a water bottle.

• Use sunscreen, wear a hat or visor,  and sunglasses to keep the sun off the face and out of the eyes.

• Wear lightweight, light-colored, moisture-wicking clothing. 

• Remain in the shade or air conditioning when off-the-water.

​9.  All staff and participants must thoroughly familiarize themselves with the applicable waterway TRAFFIC RULES and regulations before engaging in any rowing activities at the given rowing venue.

​10.  Participants should be familiar with the basic ROWING TERMINOLOGY such as: Weigh enough, port and starboard, sit ready, back it down, check it down, set the boat….

11.  Before launching, each participant will perform an EQUIPMENT CHECK that includes inspection of the boat, oars, rigging, foot stretchers, seat, and tracks.

 

ON THE WATER

12. Each participant will be required to wear a LIFE JACKET and have a safety whistle at all times.

13. MINORS will be supervised at all times.

14. Rowers will always stay in a GROUP and will never row alone.

15. IF THE BOAT CAPSIZES. Climb on the boat, and use the whistle to signal need for assistance. Stay with the boat until help arrives. 

With our type of boats, the risk of capsizing is minimal.

16. Apply NAVIGATION skills, frequently check your course, and row safely.