Cold Water Policy: Everyone must wear a PFD when on the water or air is 8 degrees celcius or below. No exceptions!
Cold Water Safety
THIS MESSAGE IS FROM CANOE KAYAK CANADA
Spring is finally here and paddlers are starting to return to training on Canadian water. Competent coaches and sound safety practices have been key factors in maintaining a good safety record within our organization. We need your cooperation to ensure this is continued. Your diligence in communicating and enforcing the code of safety will help to prevent tragedies. We will be communicating several cold water safety protocols through our social networks this week and ask that you take time to review them with your athletes:
Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)
- Mandatory for paddlers under the age of 18 while the water is below 8 degrees Celsius
- Mandatory for anyone under the age of 16 all the time. With the changing of the age categories at the recent AGM, this year it includes anyone born in 1998 or later.
- Recommended for everyone while the water is below 8 degrees Celsius. Paddlers over 18 who choose not to wear a PFD must sign a waiver and have an approved PFD accessible in their boat or in the accompanying safety boat
Coaches
- Stay close to your athletes in the safety boat
- Don’t put inexperienced paddlers on the water
- Keep you athletes near the shore in cold water
- Carry a cell phone with you in the motorboat if possible
Weather
- Don’t put your athletes out in inclement weather
- Club Safety Officer and/or Head Coach must monitor environmental conditions including water temperature, air temperature, wind, precipitation
Cold Water Effects
- Know the effects of cold water and treatments
