Due to river levels this has been POSTPONED!
Bookings now closed!
Please note that due to high or low water levels this session may be cancelled last minute. As much notice will be given as possible but due to sudden adverse changes in weather or river levels safety must be prioritised. Please only book onto this event if you are aware and ok with event cancellations on or part way through the day, even after travelling.
The session costs £10 for the full day.
Numbers for this course are limited and based on suitability. Please only book onto this session if you have received club pal communications or held a conversation with Aidan.
This session is aimed at a basic introduction to white water swimming and etiquette. We will look at river signals, the white water environment, use of safety equipment and strategies, safe swimming techniques, what to do when we swim and what to do in the event of someone else swimming.
This is not a Paddle Sport UK official course. Courses such as Introduction to White Water Safety, White Water Safety and Advanced White Water Safety can be found on the Paddles Up training website. If you want to further your learning after this session these courses would be the next step.
Location
We will be based at a static location on the River Tees throughout the whole day, it is approximately two hours away and around a 30 minute drive from Barnard Castle.
We will meet in Low Force Layby at 8:30. Alternatively you can park in Bowlees visitor centre car park if the lay by is full. Please speak to Aidan if you require further details regarding the location.
Session
Part 1 - The first half of the day we will based on land looking at river safety, river signals, throwlines and what to do in the event of swimming or seeing a swimmer. Normal outdoor wear will be required. Please take clothes for all types of weather, remember it is October and may be raining. A good set of waterproofs may be required for the first half of the day.
Early Lunch
Part 2 - Safe Swimming Techniques.
This session will require a lot of swimming. You will need to be prepared to be in the water, a lot!
You will need:
- Clothing for doing lots of swimming, ideally a dry suit. A wet suit and cag is suitable but you will be in and out of cold water all afternoon.
- Appropriate footwear (it is very rocky). Wet suit shoes are not appropriate as they do not have enough grip.
- Buoyancy aid
- Helmet
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Drinks (Hot and Cold)
- Spare, warm, dry clothing!
Optional Items
- 15/20m throwline (probably best to try a few out before you buy)
- Knife (required if you have a throwline, must be accessible one handed from your buoyancy aid)
- Changing robe
Boats are not required - this day is reserved for swimming.
A risk assessment for the event will be available from the ‘Governance’ tab under ‘Risk Assessments’.
Note that there are no changing facilities at the location, a changing robe works well.
Under 18’s must have a parent or appropriate adult for the duration of the session.
Children will only be released into the care of their responsible adult.
The Organising Committee of the White Water - Safe Swimming session believe that the welfare and wellbeing of all children is paramount. All children, regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, have equal rights to safety and protection. All suspicions, concerns and allegations of harm will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly and appropriately. A welfare officer for the event has been appointed and will act as the point of contact for any concerns or allegations.
Kind regards,
Aidan
