Water Safety Policy
Each Coach/Team Leader must provide regular sharing of the Water Safety Policy for all their teams.
- Life jackets or Inflatable PFD must be worn at all times by all paddlers – no exceptions. This is both a Roopu tikanga and regional bylaw. Inflatable PFD may not be worn by paddlers under J19.
- No Junior team (J19 & under) is permitted on the water without an adult, either present in the waka or supervising from the bank.
- All paddlers should be able to competently swim 50 metres or more.
- All waka need to be inspected before going out and upon return to ensure water worthiness. Any damages need to be reported to the Safety Officer or Maintenance Officer immediately.
- All waka must have 2 bailers attached before being taken out.
- Each waka must carry 1 spare paddle – with the exception of W6 when on the river. It is a requirement at sea, as is a flare and water protected communication device (minimum a mobile phone in a waterproof bag).
- Correct procedure to get into and out of the waka must be adhered to always.
- Tipping technique must be taught and practiced at regular intervals throughout the season. Team leaders are to keep a record of this, which needs to be made available to the Roopu Safety Officer upon request. The safety officer will run a tipping drill annually.
- It is advisable for at least one member of the waka to hold a current First Aid/ Water Safety certification – Team Leaders to keep a record of this person.
- W1 – It is recommended that all W1 paddlers paddle in, at least pairs, or take a cellphone with them in a waterproof pocket if heading out past the 1000m mark. Let someone know where you are going and your expected return.
- A First Aid kit is kept in the resource shed and will also be supplied for events.
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