Whilst our section of the river is fairly safe, kayaking and canoeing are ‘assumed risk’ sports (i.e. as a participant you are aware of inherent risks of taking part) there are hazards to be aware of.

The following is a list of hazards I’ve identified and brief mitigation notes, but please be aware that it’s not exhaustive. Also, the level of risk varies depending on environmental conditions at the time:

On land

• Carrying boats. Most of our kayaks are light enough to be carried solo but always make sure you keep a straight back. Get someone else to help you with K2s, sea kayaks and canoes. 
• Mind the Gap! There is often quite a gap between the pontoon and land. This issue is being looked at by the committee but, in the meantime, please be careful. There have been a few accidents.
  

Environmental risks

• River flow – Check before you paddle. Keep away from the upstream side of structures in high flow. If you do get swept on to a buoy or other structure, always lean into it – you can normally work your way off. If you lean away, you will capsize.
• High winds. Check the conditions before you paddle and know your limits.
• Cold weather/cold water – are you dressed appropriately? Do you have spare clothes if you capsize?
• Thunderstorms – Don’t paddle if thunderstorms are forecast. If there is a lightening storm when you’re on the river, get off the water ASAP.
• Water quality – Storm drains can overflow after heavy rain leading to high levels of pollution. Consider not paddling in these conditions. Always wash your hands after paddling, especially before touching food.
• Submerged branches and logs – keep an eye out for these hazards.
  

Structures

• Moored boats, buoys, overhanging trees and other stationary structures – can be a particular hazard in high flows. Keep clear. If you capsize, consider these hazards before swimming to the bank.
• Islands – keep clear of the upstream end of islands in high flow.
• Weirs – Give them a wide berth. For example, if paddling above Sunbury lock, paddle on the left (looking upstream) and only cross over when you are well clear of the weir.
  

Human factors

• Rowers and motor boats – keep out of their way. They’re not always aware of your presence. Generally keep over to the right of the river.
• Sailing boats – have the right of way. Keep out of their way
• Swimmers. Many swimmers are responsible and tow a buoy behind them. Some do not, watch out for them, especially in high summer.
• Nutters. Watch out for people jumping off bridges and the sailing club during the summer. There have been a number of near misses.
• Fishermen/women will be around between 16 June and 14 March. They are often difficult to see. Although we need to keep over to the right of the river, do keep an eye out for lines

Wildlife

• Not normally a hazard to us (apart from swans) but we can be a hazard to wildlife. Steer clear.

For more information, please see club safety page, especially the HCC Local Waters Risk Assessment: https://hamptoncanoeclub.org/club-safety

For a quick check of the river conditions and river closures, check out the river conditions site: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/river-thames-current-river-conditions

For more information on river flow, check out this HCC webpage: https://hamptoncanoeclub.org/staying-safe-on-higher-river-flow/