Dragon Boat West

There have been reports that some members are paddling at night without good visible lights (attaching a small turtle light to your iako does not allow good 360 degree visibility).  Practically and based on the legal requirements from Transport Canada you must have solid white light(s) that allow 360 degree visability.  If you see fellow members who are paddling without visible lighting at night please remind them or email the Vice Commodore ([email protected]).  This has been the forth reminder sent out this year.

Note that the lighting recommendation has been updated to 360 degree solid white(s) lights after checking with Transport Canada's regulations.  Below are the club's winter paddling rules. 
 
 Winter safety rules are in effect from Oct 15 - Apr 15. 

• 1.  All paddlers must wear PFDs during both daylight and evening hours.
• 2.  Paddlers venturing past the Burrard St. Bridge must stay within 50m of shore at all times.
• 3.  Novice paddlers must paddle in pairs and may not venture past the Burrard St. Bridge unless accompanied by a qualified FCRCC coach.

The following is further required when paddling at night (30 minutes before dusk and onwards):

• 1.  The club requires that paddlers must wear lights that are clearly visible and have 360 degree visibility.  Transport Canada indicate two options:
  
  • (a)   Lantern lighting - Solid white light(s).  Although the minimum legal requirement is that the light be visible at the bow of the boat, the club requires 360 degree visible lighting.
  • (b)   Lighting similar to a sailboat  - The bow (front) of the boat should have a red light on the port (left) side and a starboard (right) green light.  A solid white light is at the stern (back) of the boat.  The green and red directional lighting is only required on the club's coach boat.
  2.  All paddlers require a partner when paddling in the dark (no solo paddling).
  3.  Do not pass the Burrard St. Bridge.