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PHCC Paddling Guidelines
Before you get on the water there are several checks you should perform. These
guidelines are to help you enjoy your paddling more, and in a safe manner and are
recommended by both The BCU and your Committee.
Boat Stuff. Airbags, Hatch covers, Toggles and Bungs
- Make sure the boat you are going to use is fitted with Airbags, and that they are secure and inflated.
- Hatch covers, where fitted are tight and secure.
- Toggles and any deck lines are tight and secure. (Toggles are for rescue purposes, and not to be used for lifting)
- Drain bung is in and tight.
Personal kit Stuff. Enough layers, Buoyancy Aid, Emergency Kit, Lights.
- Ensure you are wearing the correct kit for the conditions, now and when you get back. (Its easier to take layers off if you get too hot, rather than put layers on and warm up)
- Always wear a Buoyancy aid or Personal floatation device when on the water.
- When paddling on longer trips its always a good idea to take some basic emergency kit with you, a hot or cold drink dependant on weather conditions, spare dry clothes, first aid kit if trained, basic repair kit, means of communication i.e. mobile phone or vhf radio. (some areas in the harbour, and along the coast have no phone signal)
- When paddling at night always take a torch, or some sort of Light with you.
Togetherness. 3 or more and Capsize drill
- Never paddle in a group of less than three, one of whom should be able to perform a rescue.
- If you have never done a wet exit before i.e. capsize drill then don’t go beyond the pier on your own. If paddling in a group let the leader know you’ve not done a capsize drill.
- Know how many are in your paddling group, and who is leading it. Look out for each other in your group, it’s not the sole responsibility of the leader. Juniors should always paddle with a responsible adult who can rescue, or a qualified coach.
Tide and Return Time
- Whatever trip you are doing, let someone on land know where you are going and also an estimated time of return. On a club night this will be the duty officer.
- Always be aware of the tide and weather conditions. There are areas of the harbour where the tide runs very fast on spring tides and it is easy to run out of water and get cut off. Tide tables are posted in the club hut. Weather can be very changeable very quickly, so check before you leave.
Ships, speedboats and Jetskis
- The harbour is the second largest natural harbour in the world, and is a beautiful place to explore. It is also a very busy leisure area and commercial port, with a main channel just a few meters from Lake Pier. There is also a dedicated water ski area, and a Jet Ski area. These areas have no speed limit, and it is very difficult to see a small kayak at speed so be vigilant. If you’re not sure where these areas are then ask!
Kayaking has lots of different disciplines, have a go at as many as possible, they are all catered for in the club. Above all enjoy your paddling and have fun.