Safety on the Water
Safety is a priority at Gorge Narrows Rowing Club. The Gorge Waterway, where we row, is used by many different people and organizations. There is commercial traffic, taxis, recreational boaters, other clubs, and swimmers. Both on and off the water, here are some of the ways we keep everyone safe.
We Row When It's Safe
Coaches decide whether it is safe to row.
We do not row if conditions are unsafe. Our coaches base their decision on a number of factors including, but not limited to:
| Temperature | Crews are not permitted to row if the temperature is 1 degree or lower or the dock is frosted over. |
| Wind | Crews are not permitted to row if Wind Speed or gusts are above 25 km/h. |
| Lightning | Crews are not permitted to row if there is lightning anywhere in the skyline. Crews must wait 30 minutes after the last visible lightning flash to launch. |
| Fog | Crews are not permitted to row if Bay Street Bridge is not visible due to fog. |
We Follow the Flow Pattern
We share a common course flow pattern with St. Michaels University School and the Fairway Gorge Paddling Club. Following the pattern keeps everyone safe.
By the Selkirk Trestle, the pattern takes a jog towards Halkett Island. There are several rock formations there that are only visible at low tide, but are quite capable of removing skegs and rudders!
And, while we follow the flow pattern, always remember that we share the waterway with others who may not: swimmers, paddlers, floating hot tubs, water taxis, powerboats, and commercial vessels. Always keep an eye out. Never assume the way is clear.
Things to Know
There are important safety measures that rowers need to be aware of:
Whistle | You need a whistle while on the water (We sometimes have whistles for sale Ask at a practice if you need help getting a whistle. |
| Daylight | If any part of your row will not be in full daylight, then you must have lights for your boat. Ask at a practice if you need help getting lights. |
| Clothing | For other boats to avoid you, they have to be able to see you. Please wear light or high visibility clothing, especially in dim light. |
| Warming | If you end up in the water, we have a safety response agreement for access to the showers in the gym above the boathouse. |
For More Information
Our official safety policies can be found in our Safety & Operations Policies - for Everyone document.
In addition, Rowing Canada produces a safety video. Rowing Canada requires that all rowers and coaches view the video each year. It contains lots of great information, and was filmed on Elk Lake and on the Gorge!
Beyond Physical Safety
In addition to staying safe on the water and around the boathouse, we are committed to creating a safe sport environment that is accessible, inclusive, respects their participants’ personal goals, and is free from all forms of maltreatment
For the record, the featured image on this page is of heavy waves at the Victoria Breakwater, on Dallas Road. It is never like that in the Gorge!