A CREW THAT IS UNAWARE OF THESE INSTRUCTIONS OR SIMPLY IGNORES THEM IS A DANGER TO ITSELF AND ALL OTHER CREWS.

All crews must comply with the regulations laid down in the ARA Rules of Racing & The Water Safety Code.

It is the responsibility of Captains to ensure that all their Coxswains and Steers have not only read these instructions but also understood them. All Coxswains and Steers should be familiar with the contents of the Video "Coxing a Tideway Head".

All boats on the Tideway must display a six-digit ID code.

Rowing on the Thames – PLA Code of Practice
Navigation rules for rowing boats on the river Thames are not consistent along its length. The current arrangement on the Tideway allows rowers to "work the slacks" to minimise some of the hazards of rowing on what can be a fast flowing tidal river, with bridges, moorings and sandbanks.

Those of you who are both familiar with the Tideway, or are new / visiting are required to familarise yourselves with the current arrangements.

Remember normal navigation rules apply before river closure and after the last crew has finished. Crews are required to have read the PLA Navigation Rules:

Code of Practice for Rowing on the Tideway,

PLA Rowing Map of the Tideway

Safety Control:
Safety Control will be located at Chiswick Pier.

Safety cover will be provided from approx. 10.00am until approx 1.30pm. Crews likely to be returning upstream after this time are advised to carry a mobile phone, together with the number of the host club, in case of an emergency.

Ambulance & First Aid facilities will be available at :

1. Chiswick Bridge (University of Westminster)
   
2. Chiswick Bridge (Ship Lane)
   
3. Chiswick Pier House (Corney Reach) (First Aid only)
   
4. Hammersmith Bridge (Rutland Arms)
   
5. Putney Embankment (Opposite Putney Pier)

Hospitals: Local hospitals have been advised of this event.

Anyone in need of assistance should notify a Marshal who will be able to summon help on his / her radio.

If a member of the crew should fall out of the boat it is essential that the crew should stop and help. Following crews must take avoiding action and alert rescue craft.

PLA, Coastguard and River Police

These authorities are aware of this event and will be in evidence on and off the water.

Hypothermia: Layers of clothing are more effective than one warm garment. The outer layer should be wind and waterproof.

Dehydration: Yes, even in November! Carry water with you for after the race.

If the race has to be stopped or suspended once crews are afloat/underway:

• Marshals will stop crews by waving RED flags & sounding short blasts on air horns.

• Crews must STOP, HOLD POSITION AND WAIT for further instructions.

• Do not put yourself & others at risk by not obeying.

In the interests of spectator and bystander safety, supporters and coaches must not follow the race on bicycles.