SAFETY

This RISK WARNING is issued to all persons participating in rowing and related activities conducted by Coastal Rowing and Touring Australia Inc. Participants are warned that, regardless of the precautions taken by experienced persons, rowing can be a potentially dangerous pursuit and participants are exposed to significant risk of property damage, physical harm and possible death. These risks may include, but are not limited to: 

• Exposure to the elements for extended periods.
• Impact with other vessels, the shore, or fixed objects such as moorings, buoys, navigations poles and similar.  
• Impact with wholly or partially submerged objects such as logs and rocks. 
• Grounding in shallow water. 
• Swamped or run over by another vessel such as a powerboat or sailing boat. 
• Failure of equipment leading to loss of vessel control. 
• Capsizing or entanglement in the water which may result in drowning. 
• Changes of weather and sea conditions which may change suddenly and without warning. 
• Over-exertion while rowing, training or competing. 
• Absence of immediate medical care and the likelihood that significant delays may occur before medical assistance becomes available.  

The risks associated with rowing may result in injury, and in rare cases could lead to loss of life or permanent disablement.

Coastal Rowing and Touring Australia Inc. also warns participants it may be unable to render assistance to participants who are in distress in all situations.

Participants are warned to consider the above risks and all other risks before deciding to participate in any rowing activities with Coastal Rowing and Touring Australia Inc.

Participants are also advised that although Coastal Rowing and Touring Australia Inc. is covered by third party liability insurance, this cover DOES NOT NECESSARILY extend to participants in a rowing vessel. 

Any participant who considers they have a need for insurance must make their own private arrangements with an insurer. 

To ensure that all rowers are aware of their responsibilities, all club members are obliged to read, understand and acknowledge the CRATA Risk Management Plan.

Medical Fitness

Rowers must inform the safety officer, coaches and any other crew/club members of any medical condition that may present a risk to themselves and/or their crew. 

If participants have a medical condition.  A medical declaration must be completed by the rower’s doctor and returned to the CRATA Secretary annually.