In December, 2022, USR updated its Safety Guidelines. They appear to be largely unchanged from the earlier guidelines, but better organized and clearer.
A more complete review is planned for later this summer.
USRowing Safety Guidelines provide thirty-two safety guidelines with fifty subparts that are “meant to serve as an outline for your own safety program,”[1] as well as guidance provided in their Safety Video and magazine Safety Features. USRowing does not have minimum safety requirements; its guidelines are provided only to assist clubs in developing their own standards.
Please note that USRowing has been in the process of trying to update their “Guidelines,” which are now called “Expectations.” As these changes are on-going some of their current guidelines may differ from those below. Please let us know if you find significant discrepancies.
Principle among the guidelines have been the following:
Before the Row
Each club should have a safety committee. (1)
All rowers must be able to pass a swim test. (2)
The driver must be trained in the proper use and operation of the powerboat. Classes are offered through local chapters of the U.S. Power Squadron, or state boating safety departments. (9a)
A radio or cell phone is recommended to allow a quick direct link with rescue services and other coaches on the water in the event of an emergency. (9b)
Emergency supplies in the launch should include a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, night lights and tool kit. The tool kit should contain wrenches, appropriate nuts, tape, washers, and other materials needed to make small repairs. Only minor repairs should be done on the water. (9c)
Ensure that everyone in the launch is wearing a life jacket and that there is one for each person rowing under the coach’s care. (9d)
Practice man overboard safety drills. Know how to have rowers enter the coaching launch form the water. Approach from the leeward side, keeping the outboard propeller away from any victims. Turn off the engine as soon as contact is made. Avoid overloading. (9e)
The launch driver must wear the cord that activates the safety/kill switch in accordance with the motor manufactures literature. (9f)
On the Water
Under no circumstances should athletes who are minors be allowed or left unsupervised on the water. (1)
Do not row in whitecaps or winds of 12 knots or higher under any circumstances. (3a)
Do not row in fog unless your visibility to shore is as least 100 yards. (3d)
Do not row in an electrical storm. (3e)
Water temperature should always be monitored. (6)
Emergency Conditions
Under no circumstances should a rower in the water leave his/her shell (1)
It notes, as part of the safety guidelines, “there is potential danger for hypothermia when the water temperature is below 80 degrees and very dangerous when the water temperature is below 50 degrees.”
“There are a lot of options for PFDs – some of which are compatible for wearing while rowing.”[2]
[1] USRowing Safety Guidelines 2013.04.06/22:22
[2] USRowing, PFDs and rowing, April 6, 2011
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