Know Your Limits

Issuer: Michael Spice
Issuer Role: Assistant Harbour Master
Issue Date: 08/12/2023
Expiration Date: 30/04/2024
District: Safety Bulletin
Reach(es): 
 

As we slowly move through the colder winter weeks, the weather has taken the expected turn for the worse. The reduced daylight hours and increased tidal flow is making the Thames a more hazardous place for experienced and inexperienced Rowers and Coxes alike.

In recent weeks, we have seen a significant increase in reportable incidents coming from the rowing community.

WHAT CAN WE DO TO BE SAFER?

Know the conditions - Evaluate all the factors including weather, water conditions, visibility and the skill health and experience of the crew.

Make use of PLA Tidal Flags - The PLA provide guidance on Fluvial Flow rates in the form of a flag-based system. The next page explains what these flags mean

With each flag warning, the following advice will be issued, which all recreational craft users should consider carefully before venturing onto the tidal Thames: 

Conduct a dynamic risk assessment - do not rely on one piece of data for assuming the river is a safe place to be. Draw on all your knowledge and experience to ascertain if it is safe to go afloat. Before every session, look at the river and assess the conditions. Don’t make decisions to go afloat on single pieces of data. 

Carry a mobile phone or VHF on your person - when afloat, ensure you carry a suitable communication device on your person that is easily accessible in an emergency. The safety and well-being of everyone on board should always be the priority. If you get into any difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. 

“IF IN DOUBT, DON’T GO OUT”