WHITEWATER ONTARIO SAFETY AND RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY

Note: this policy is intended BOTH as a general guide to clubs and organizations supporting whitewater activities and as a specific requirement for WO sanctioned events. Identified policies are Mandatory for WO sanctioned events; they are recommended in all other events

A. GENERAL PADDLER SAFETY

1)      A lifejacket or personal floatation device (PFD) meeting either ICF or Federal government standards must be worn by all competitors/participants in a kayak or canoe while on moving water.

2)      On moving water a helmet meeting either ICF or Federal government standards must be worn by all competitors/participants in a kayak or canoe.

3)      It is recommended that all competitors/participants be able to swim, tread water, or be familiar with drown proofing.

4)      It is recommended that all paddlers have suitable floatation in their boats

B. INSTRUCTIONS FOR WO SANCTIONED EVENTS/ACTIVITIES

An “event” includes competitions (Slalom, Downriver and Freestyle) river runs (with a certified trip leader), training and instructional activities (with instructor/coach) and other activities formally sanctioned by from time to time by WO.

Note: this policy is written in reference to river trips, but is applicable to other events at specific sites.

1)      All participants must wear a PFD and Helmet (as in A1 above);

2)      Either a coach/instructor (on shore) or the trip/event leader on a river run must carry a throw rope and be competent in the use of safety throw ropes

3)      Event organizers will ensure that safety throw ropes and competent users are located at appropriate locations involving drops and holes where swimmers are potentially in danger.

4)      On river runs trip leaders must wear a safety boat harness tow system and carry a safety throw rope. It is also strongly recommended that all participating paddlers also carry a safety throw rope (and trip leaders should verify that participants are competent in use of throw ropes)

5)      In order to comply with Canadian Coast Guard regulations (April 1, 1999), all canoes and kayaks must carry a sound signaling device (whistle).

6)      Trip/event leaders should be experienced paddlers. It is recommended that leaders complete a swift water rescue course or WO trip leader certification.

7)      An emergency action plan (EAP) must be created prior to the intended River Trip/activity by Trip Leader and discussed with other Leaders or participants before paddling commences. The EAP consists of appointing an "in charge" person to make decisions in the event of an emergency. Routes to the site for access by the various outside medical assistance should be described in the EAP outline.

8)      The EAP outline must be kept in either a vehicle at the takeout or put in or on the Trip/event Leader throughout the day.

9)      The Trip/event Leader should discuss the potential hazardous of the river trip prior with any paddling participants.  Depending on participants skill level unfamiliar rapids at level III and higher should be scouted from shore. Trip/event Leader should also ensure safety of participants by respecting there skill level and plan river trip around the weakest paddler.

10)  Trip Leader or experienced paddler with in the group should have prior knowledge of the river prior to leading a River Trip.

11)  The Trip/event Leader or designate should ensure that they use common safety practices while running the river, including Head counts, Sweeper boats, buddy system, etc.

12)  Trip/event Leaders must ensure that they have a First Aid Kit available on river trips and/or in shuttle vehicle

C. General Recommendations

1)      All trip/event leaders must be familiar with, and enforce, this WO Safety Policy.

2)      Before leading a river trip/event the Leader shall familiarize him/herself with the water conditions, river levels and be aware of any potential hazards or obstacles that they may be encountered.

3)      Event and trip leaders are responsible for inspection of canoeing/kayaking equipment to ensure it is safe and that it is appropriate for the participants and conditions at the site or on the river to be run.

4)      It is recommended that event and trip leaders be trained in First Aid and Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), water safety and life saving.

Revised December 2010.