Safety
Dragon boating is generally safe because of the size and design of the boat and because we usually paddle in calm water. However capsizes can happen. When all paddlers are aboard the sweep will ask you to ‘number off’ before leaving the shore, this is so the crew knows how many are on board. In the event of a capsize you should always take care of yourself and check your buddy (the person sitting next to you). You should stay with the boat (it will not sink) and wait for instructions from the sweep. The paddlers in the back of the boat are also responsible to check the safety of the sweep, as are the strokes with the drummer/coach. In the event the sweep falls overboard the back two rows may need to assist the sweep to re-enter the boat. One may also need to take control of the boat if there is not another sweep on board or until the sweep re-enters the boat.
Dragon boating is generally safe because of the size and design of the boat and because we usually paddle in calm water. However capsizes can happen. When all paddlers are aboard the sweep will ask you to ‘number off’ before leaving the shore, this is so the crew knows how many are on board. In the event of a capsize you should always take care of yourself and check your buddy (the person sitting next to you). You should stay with the boat (it will not sink) and wait for instructions from the sweep. The paddlers in the back of the boat are also responsible to check the safety of the sweep, as are the strokes with the drummer/coach. In the event the sweep falls overboard the back two rows may need to assist the sweep to re-enter the boat. One may also need to take control of the boat if there is not another sweep on board or until the sweep re-enters the boat.
Capsize Drill - video
AusDBF - All clubs are requested to ensure that every paddler attending Aus Champs views this YouTube video of a capsize drill.
We recommend that all paddlers watch this video.
All paddlers, especially those new to dragon boating, should be aware of what to do in the event of a capsize.
AusDBF - All clubs are requested to ensure that every paddler attending Aus Champs views this YouTube video of a capsize drill.
We recommend that all paddlers watch this video.
All paddlers, especially those new to dragon boating, should be aware of what to do in the event of a capsize.
