Before you head out
- Your safety starts before you set out to sea, check weather forecast and tides. Wind against tide will create larger waves.
- Always wear your lifejacket when on the pontoon.
- Do not loiter on the pontoon.
- Pontoons can be very slippery when wet, exercise caution when walking on wet pontoons.
- Ensure you wear the appropriate clothing for the conditions and in hot weather protect yourself from the sun. Ultraviolet light is reflected by the sea and will increase the possibility of sunburn.
- When going on longer journeys or training hard ensure you carry adequate drinking water.
Onboard
- Familiarize yourself with all safety equipment onboard such as first aid kit, bailers, ropes, anchors and VHF radios.
- Ensure the VHF radio has enough charge for the journey you plan.
- Know how to use the VHF radio and call for assistance if needed. If in doubt, then ask your cox to take you through the procedure.
- The cox is responsible for the overall safety of the boat and its crew.
- Listen carefully to the commands given by the cox and carry out the instructions.
- Stay in your rowing position and only change when instructed to do so by the cox.
- Inform the cox if you are feeling unwell or uneasy and you wish to return to shore.
- Take special care when boarding and alighting from the boat, listen to the cox, do not make sudden movement into or out of the boat, enter and exit low when using the pontoon, if unsure ask for assistance.
Lifejackets
- All crew members must wear a lifejacket when in the boat.
- Members are encouraged to buy and maintain their own lifejacket.
- Ensure your lifejacket has a crotch strap fitted and that you use it.
- Always check your lifejacket before donning.
- Your lifejacket will only work properly if it is worn correctly. Adjust belts for a firm fit.
- Lifejackets require regular maintenance.
- Regularly check that the gas bottle is securely tightened into the firing mechanism.
- Check the gas bottle for corrosion and the bottle is the correct capacity for the lifejacket.
- Unscrew the bottle and check the seal is still secure.
- Weigh the bottle to ensure its gross weight matches the weight embossed on the bottle.
- Unfold the lifejacket and inspect the cover and bladder for punctures.
- Check the belts are firmly attached to the lifejacket and inspect the stitching for wear.
- Every 3 to 6 months remove the gas bottle and inflate the jacket, leave for 24 hours to check that it is airtight.
- Ensure pulling toggle is visible and accessible.
- When wearing an automatic jacket ensure the firing mechanism is indicating green and replace when it reaches its expiry date.