What To Do In The Event Of A Capsize

Dear fellow members,

My heart grieved with the loss of our 5 fellow Singapore paddlers.

With the recent tragic event, it reminded each and everyone of us to be aware of the standard procedure in the event of a boat capsize.

I wish to highlight and reiterate the importance of such SOP in the event of a capsize.

• Remain calm and ensure lifevests is properly harnessed.
• Stay with the boat
  - A capsized boat is more easily seen by those coming to help
  - A capsized boat provides you with a buoyant raft
  - Staying with the boat allows you to re-enter the boat if it’s possible to upturn the boat and drain off the water
  - Staying with the boat keeps the whole team together enabling members to help each other
  - Only leave the boat when you know you are safe or that staying with the boat will endanger your life or if the boat no longer remains as an effective life raft
• Do a headcount and keep each other within sight.
• If no help is available, try to position the boat at about 30% from the direction of the current stream or wind.
• When landing, test the bottom with your feet gently and be aware of encountering difficulties with soft mud and broken glass etc. This is also why you are encouraged to wear aqua shoes.
• Once on a firm ground, you should walk out to waist depth before attempting to do anything with the boat.

These should be good!

By Coach (Kim Hwa)