Water Safety

Safety on the water

Simple Steps to Safer Rowing

1. Read the conditions: Check the weather and prepare for the conditions. Practice sun-safe rowing; ensure someone knows you're on the water, wear appropriate clothing, apply sunscreen and fill up your water bottle.

2. Be seen and be safe: Follow the rules of the waterway and constantly monitor your surrounds. Remain on the correct side of markers, understand hazards and respect others on the water. Attach appropriate lights when rowing in early morning or dark conditions. 

3. Inspect your boat: Visually inspect your boat for damage and check all nuts, screws, bolts and oars are tight prior to placing your boat on the water.

4. Check bow ball: Your boat must be fitted with a solid white ball with a minimum diameter of 4cm. It must be firmly affixed to the bow regardless of being external or integral to hull construction.

5. Adjust safety cords: Ensure safety straps are adjusted evenly and to the correct length. Heel ties must also be fitted and adjusted according to regulations outlined by World Rowing and the Fédération Internationale des Sociétés d'Aviron (FISA).

6. It's time to row: You've checked and planned for the conditions, let someone know you're heading out, fitted appropriate lights if needed, inspected your boat and gear and now you're ready to go. Enjoy your session.

Download the Bont Rowing Simple Steps to Safer Rowing poster.