Richmond Canoe Club policy on buoyancy aids.

Committee Notice: Richmond Canoe Club policy on buoyancy aids.
Ref http://richmondcanoeclub.com/about/rules/

You MUST wear a buoyancy aid if any of the following is true:

• The water temperature is below 6°
• The river is on yellow or red boards
• You are a junior
• Any part of your session will be in the dark
• You are in division 7-9 or unranked
• The coach running your session tells you to
• The water temperature is below 10° and have a history of capsizing.

References:

• the river fow:  http://riverconditions.environment-agency.gov.uk/ 
• the river  water temperature:  https://dl1.findlays.net/show/temp/thames1

Paddler safety in groups

Within reason, every paddler within a group should constantly keep check that everyone is safe. If a paddler capsises they should shout for help so other members of the group can assist them. This is especially important with night-time paddling.

Buying your own buoyancy aid: 

• Preferred by racing paddlers: http://www.kudukayak.com/shop/accessories/Mocke-Racer-PFD
• Excellent value, comfortable and used by the club: https://www.decathlon.co.uk/ba-50-n-vest-red-id_8355047.html
• And many other options: https://www.decathlon.co.uk/C-50789-buoyancy-aids

Safety & Port of London authority

All paddlers must abide Port of London authority paddling code.  https://www.pla.co.uk/Paddling-Code