Announcing new cold water safety rules

Especially during the colder months, safety on the water is our top priority. The club has updated its Cold Water Safety Policy, introducing key changes to ensure compliance with Rowing Canada regulations, and so everyone rows safely in cold conditions.

• According to Rowing Canada, for water temperatures at or below 15°C, rowing clubs must create, communicate and adhere to a cold water safety protocol.

🔹 Key New Cold Water Safety Rules

1️⃣ Safety Boat Requirement for Cold Water Rowing – Until we have built up safety boat operation capacity into our membership (training to come), all adult rowing sessions when water temperatures are 15°C or lower must be accompanied by a safety boat.

2️⃣ Minimum Group Size Increased – In cold-water conditions, athletes must row in groups of at least 3.

3️⃣ Pre-Row Safety Check Required – Rowers must discuss their route, partners, and a contingency plan before launching.

4️⃣ Required Personal Safety Equipment – Every rower must carry:

• A mobile phone in a buoyant waterproof case

• A safety whistle (to signal for help if needed) 

• A PFD (preferably belt-style inflatable)

5️⃣ Launch Timing & Late Arrivals – If a rower is late, they must contact their group. If the group cannot or chooses not to wait, the late rower may not row alone when the buddy system is in effect.

📌 Full policy available here: SSI RC Cold Water Safety Policy v2 9 Dec 2024